Job Summary

Project Scientist or Project Engineer – Design and Test of Electronic Devices (e.g., Neuromorphic Systems)
Center for In-Space Manufacturing (CISM)
Three-Year Project-Based Position | West Lafayette, IN

Purdue University is seeking a Project Scientist or Project Engineer to advance the design, fabrication, and testing of next-generation electronic and neuromorphic systems. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to pioneering work that bridges physics, materials science, and engineering—developing electronic devices that emulate neural and adaptive behaviors for both terrestrial and space applications.

As part of the Center for In-Space Manufacturing (CISM)—the nation’s first center dedicated to in-space manufacturing—you will work within a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment that explores technologies enabling intelligent, resilient, and autonomous systems beyond Earth.

What You’ll Do

• Design, fabricate, and characterize advanced electronic and neuromorphic devices
• Conduct experimental testing to evaluate device behavior under variable environmental conditions
• Integrate materials and device modeling insights into design optimization efforts
• Collaborate with experts in materials science, device physics, and fabrication engineering to advance research objectives
• Contribute to publications, data analysis, and the dissemination of research outcomes

Why Purdue
At Purdue, discovery extends beyond theory—it’s where ideas turn into real-world impact. You’ll join a community dedicated to driving innovation across Earth and space, leveraging world-class research facilities and the collective expertise of diverse teams.

In the Center for In-Space Manufacturing, your work will directly contribute to creating electronics and systems that power the next generation of adaptive, intelligent technologies.

Join Purdue and help shape the future of computing and manufacturing—here and beyond our planet.

About Us

The School of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University is truly unique.  We began in 1882 as experts in locomotives (thus the name "Boilermakers!") And now in the 21st century, we continue to move the world forward by combining the latest technologies with the strongest of fundamentals.

Purdue hosts the nation’s No. 1 Manufacturing and Supply Chain Program. Further Manufacturing and Materials Research Laboratories (MMRL), one of the nation's largest shared laboratories for physical and digital manufacturing research and education. ME hosts nation’s first Center for In-Space Manufacturing (CISM). Additionally, Maker spaces and workshops, like the Bechtel Innovation Design Center, allow students to develop and build any prototype they can imagine.  The world's largest academic cleanroom, Birck Nanotechnology Center, enables pioneering advancements in nanotechnology.  The world's largest academic propulsion lab, Zucrow Labs, is the birthplace of next-generation jet engines and rockets.  The world's largest academic HVAC lab, Herrick Labs, shapes the future of smart buildings.  We have the only accredited Motorsports Engineering degree program in the nation. And with 50,000 students to collaborate across all disciplines, there's no limit to what Purdue ME students can accomplish.

We maintain high standards, whether in the classroom, the laboratory, or the workplace.  Purdue ME is one of the top ten schools in the country, as ranked by US News & World Report.  98% of our students pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam.  97% of our undergraduates engage in experiential learning while they're here (like internships, co-ops, and research).  43% of our students gain international experience (the national average is just 5%).  Students come from all over the world to attend Purdue ME; 17% of our undergraduates and 63% of our graduate students are international.  Plus, more than 80,000 Purdue Engineering graduates form one of the largest and most supportive alumni networks in the world.

When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we’ve been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation. 

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or Mechanical Engineering (Ph.D. preferred)
• A minimum of One (1) year of experience in semiconductor device design, fabrication, and testing
• Experience in cleanroom processes and familiarity with electronic materials and thin-film fabrication techniques
• Prior exposure to neuromorphic or emerging device concepts is desirable

Skills Needed:

• Strong foundation in solid-state physics, materials science, and device engineering
• Hands-on experience with micro/nano-fabrication tools (photolithography, thin-film deposition, etching, etc.)
• Proficiency with electrical test instrumentation (probe stations, parameter analyzers, oscilloscopes)
• Knowledge of modeling and simulation software (COMSOL, Sentaurus TCAD, or equivalent)
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities; strong attention to detail and documentation

Additional Information:

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:  Defined Contribution Waiting Period   
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

• Professional 2
• Pay Band S120
  Job Code #20002707

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/ 

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EOE employer.