Project Description

While the future of manufacturing will rely on advanced computational techniques (e.g., machine learning) and high-throughput systems, the next generation of materials will enable crucial advances in these systems. Engineers have a key role in the design of macromolecular systems that will enable significant advances in future manufacturing environments (e.g., additive manufacturing). In addition to new materials, a workforce prepared to and interested in addressing the future of manufacturing is essential to this “Giant Leaps.” This effort focuses on the intersection of chemical engineering research on high-performance photoinitiators in 3-dimensional (3D) nanoprinting situations and the development of the undergraduate researchers as the future workforce. Undergraduate research has been shown as a key co-curricular experience for developing students’ interests in postbaccalaureate study and identities as STEM professionals. Supporting the development of STEM identities has been defined as a key aspect for broadening participation of traditionally underrepresented students (i.e., women, Black, Latinx/Hispanic, Indigenous, and individuals at the intersections of multiple underrepresented groups). A postdoctoral scholar will lead efforts in engaging undergraduate students in authentic and extended research and design projects in 3D nanomanufacturing and conduct research on both novel materials and the effects of undergraduate research on students’ career trajectories. 

Start Date

08/2021 

Postdoc Qualifications

Potential candidates should be eager to develop new skills with respect to chemistry, engineering, and engineering education while building from a relevant skill set that was acquired during their previous studies. Moreover, potential candidates should be able to work well independently and as a member of interdisciplinary, fast-moving teams. Previous experience with respect to engineering education or other social science research is preferred, but it is not required.

Co-Advisors

Bryan Boudouris, boudouris@purdue.edu, Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, https://engineering.purdue.edu/ChE/people/ptProfile?id=71151

Allison Godwin, godwina@purdue.edu, School of Engineering Education, https://engineering.purdue.edu/STRIDE 

References

Chi, T., Somers, P., Wilcox, D. A., Schuman, A. J., Iyer, V., Le, R., Gengler, J., Ferdinandus, M., Liebig, C., Pan, L., Xu, X., & Boudouris, B. W. (2019). Tailored thioxanthone‐based photoinitiators for two‐photon‐controllable polymerization and nanolithographic printing. Journal of Polymer Science Part B: Polymer Physics, 57(21), 1462-1475.

Joo, Y., Agarkar, V., Sung, S. H., Savoie, B. M., & Boudouris, B. W. (2018). A nonconjugated radical polymer glass with high electrical conductivity. Science, 359(6382), 1391-1395.

Godwin, A. & Boudouris, B. W. (2020). Fostering Motivation for Chemical Engineering Students’ Academic Success: An Example from a Sophomore Materials and Energy Balances Course. Chemical Engineering Education, 54(3), 121-128.

Godwin, A., Potvin, G., Hazari, Z., & Lock, R. (2016). Identity, critical agency, and engineering: An affective model for predicting engineering as a career choice. Journal of Engineering Education, 105(2), 312-340.

Rohde, J., Musselman, L., Benedict, B., Verdín, D., Godwin, A., Kirn, A., Benson, L., & Potvin, G. (2019). Design experiences, engineering identity, and belongingness in early career electrical and computer engineering students. IEEE Transactions on Education, 62(3), 165-172