Research Engineer Principal/UK IDEA

Job Title
Research Engineer Principal/UK IDEA


Requisition Number
RE48307


Working Title
Principal Research Engineer DAC Hub for Appalachian Prosperity


Department Name
8H755:UK IDEA


Work Location
Lexington, KY


Grade Level
49


Salary Range
$72,405-119,496/year


Type of Position
Staff


Position Time Status
Full-Time


Required Education

PhD



Click here for more information about equivalencies:
https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies


Required Related Experience

3 yrs



Required License/Registration/Certification

None



Physical Requirements

To meet project requirements: lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects, climbing stairs and ladders, working outdoors, wearing PPE, sitting for extended periods of time, standing, walking, repetitive motion tasks, and exposure to noises, temperatures, chemicals, and fumes including waste.



Shift

Monday – Friday, Typical working hours, for example 8:30 am – 5:30 pm.

Some nights and weekends shift work may also be required to meet project demands.

Some job-related travel may be required..



Job Summary

Are you ready to make a real impact on the future of sustainability? The Institute for Decarbonization and Energy Advancement (IDEA) at the University of Kentucky (UK) is seeking passionate and driven research engineers to join our dynamic team. Modeled after the legendary “Bell Laboratories,” IDEA offers a collaborative, inspiring, and forward-thinking environment. You’ll be part of cutting-edge research projects that span 3-5 years, where you can take your ideas from concept to demonstration and help scale them up for real-world application and commercialization.



Key Responsibilities for the Principal Research Engineer will include but are not limited to:



Project Leadership:
Oversee project design, execution, and reporting to meet objectives and milestones.

• Lead activities in life cycle analysis, safety, compliance, and environmental assessments.
• Manage resource planning to ensure timely project completion within budget.
• Review and approve P&IDs, specifications, and layouts from external partners.
• Troubleshoot and optimize processes, resolving technical and operational issues.
• Coordinate with subcontractors on analysis and environmental assessments.
• Work with the PI on resource management and overall project execution.
• Oversee process installations, troubleshoot, and perform acceptance testing.
• Provide training and mentorship on CO2 capture and utilization techniques.
• Assist with proposal preparation and business development efforts.

Research and Reporting:

• Lead author on reports, articles, and IP disclosures.
• Present research findings at conferences and ensure data accuracy.
• Conduct in-depth data analysis and interpretation.

The Department of Energy (DOE) requires that all foreign nationals associated with this grant be submitted for review and consideration. The successful candidate will be expected to satisfy the outlined requirements for foreign nationals. A “foreign national” is defined by DOE as any person who is not a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization. To further understand the details of these requirements, please go to: https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/100-series/0142.3-B….

This position may require pre-employment drug screening as well as post-hire random drug and alcohol screening.



Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Capable of handling physical demands while adhering to PPE and safety guideline
• Effective communication, collaboration and a willingness to accept additional responsibilities, along with regular progress reporting.
• Strong research and reporting skills
• Ability to work on-site, travel as required and maintain a high level of professional conduct in various work environments.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
Yes


Preferred Education/Experience

• Project management, expertise (process/chemical/mechanical engineering),
• Technical proficiency in CO2 capture
• Adept at using engineering software and laboratory equipment, capable of data analysis, and have a solid grasp of advanced mathematical concepts.

Deadline to Apply
01/01/2025


Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.


As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.


Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.