Demonstrated experience in the basic theory of ultrasonic methods and wave propagation for a wide range of materials for a variety of NDE applications including imaging and materials characterization
Demonstrated experience with ultrasonic measurement hardware, including transducers, motion-control systems, robots, or drones
Experience with project management
High working knowledge and experience with various relevant ultrasonic measurement equipment
M.S. degree (or higher) in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, materials engineering, or a closely related field
Ability to work on projects with access restrictions.
About the Department:
To learn more visit the CNDE Website .
This is a term position with an end date of June 30, 2028, with the potential for renewal based on funding availability.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Applications received by July 31, 2026, will receive guaranteed consideration; however, the position will remain open until it is filled.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)
Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
June 30, 2028
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
PS810
Original Posting Date:
June 8, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R19337
General ISU compensation info
Benefits
Health insuranceDental insurancePaid time offFlexible schedule
Additional Information
Position Title:
Research Scientist III
Job Group:
Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and 5 years of related experience
Job Description:
The Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE) at Iowa State University is seeking a Research Scientist III to lead and support innovative research in experimental ultrasonics and nondestructive evaluation (NDE). This role will focus on developing and conducting ultrasonic measurements and imaging techniques using immersion, contact, and non-contact transducers to address real-world challenges across a variety of industries. The successful candidate will collaborate with industry sponsors, government partners, faculty, researchers, and students to advance ultrasonic NDE technologies and microstructure characterization methods.
The Research Scientist III will lead experimental research efforts, develop sponsored research proposals, design and validate experiments, analyze results, and publish findings in scholarly journals and conferences. Additional responsibilities include mentoring students, managing and upgrading ultrasonic laboratory equipment, supporting instructional activities, engaging with sponsors and professional organizations, and helping shape future research directions for CNDE. This position requires strong technical expertise, the ability to work independently, and a commitment to advancing the field of ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation.
Iowa State University · Ames, IA