Postdoctoral Fellow

Job Summary:

The Postdoctoral Fellow supports the development and implementation of an interdisciplinary research and training ecosystem focused on advanced textiles, soft-goods systems, and human-centered performance technologies for defense, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing applications. The position contributes to the growth of sponsored research, the expansion of undergraduate research participation, and the planning and early implementation of a doctoral program in advanced soft-goods and textile systems engineering. The Fellow works collaboratively with faculty across the College of Fine Arts, Davis College of Science & Engineering, and the Office of Research & Creative Activities to advance applied research initiatives, generate competitive external grant proposals, and integrate research activity into undergraduate and graduate education. Appointment to this position is for a fixed term and is designed to support emerging institutional research priorities while contributing to TCU’s broader research development strategy. Appointment to this role is for a period of up to 2 years.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Conducts and supports applied research related to advanced textiles, soft-goods systems, and human-centered performance technologies for defense, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing environments (PPE).
2. Contributes to the preparation and development of externally funded research proposals, including drafting technical sections, coordinating preliminary research activities, and assisting with proposal documentation for federal and foundation funding programs.
3. Mentors undergraduate and graduate student researchers engaged in laboratory and applied research projects, supporting hands-on experimentation, fabrication, testing, and research documentation.
4. Assists in the coordination and implementation of research activities associated with TACTIC, including development of instructional materials, laboratory protocols, and technical documentation.
5. Supports the planning and early-stage development of a doctoral program in advanced soft-goods and textile systems through participation in curriculum planning and development of doctoral research themes.
6. Contributes to the dissemination of research outcomes through scholarly publications, conference presentations, technical reports, and collaborative research outputs.
7. Assists in coordinating interdisciplinary collaborations among faculty, research partners, and external organizations to support research growth and workforce development initiatives.
8. Supports the effective use of research facilities and laboratory environments by coordinating research activities, assisting with equipment and lab operations, and ensuring student access to applied research opportunities.
9. Maintains documentation of research results, project activities, and grant-related deliverables in accordance with university and sponsor requirements.
10. Performs other related duties as assigned in support of departmental research initiatives, sponsored programs, and student-centered research engagement.

Required Education & Experience:

• Ph.D. in textiles, materials science, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, industrial engineering, human factors, apparel design or engineering, product development, or a closely related field; or Ph.D. candidate who has achieved All But Dissertation (ABD) status in a relevant discipline at the time of appointment, with the expectation that the degree will be completed during the fellowship period.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in applied research, laboratory experimentation, prototyping, fabrication, or materials testing related to textiles, soft-goods systems, wearable technologies, advanced materials, or human-centered product systems.
• Evidence of research capability through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, conference presentations, patents, or equivalent research and development outputs.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary environments that integrate engineering, materials science, design, or applied product development.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to externally funded research proposals, technical documentation, or collaborative sponsored research projects.

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• None

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• None

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of research methods, laboratory practices, and documentation standards associated with applied research in materials, textiles, soft-goods systems, or related technical fields.
• Skill in using common productivity and research software, including Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Ability to organize, analyze, and interpret quantitative and qualitative research data with accuracy and attention to detail. Proficient with research software such as R, SPSS, SAS, Strata, Python, or MATLAB.
• Ability to maintain accurate records of research activities, laboratory procedures, and project outcomes.
• Ability to prepare technical reports, research summaries, grant-related documentation, and scholarly materials.
• Ability to manage multiple research tasks and project timelines while meeting established deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, students, and external research or industry partners while maintaining professional working relationships.
• Ability to mentor and guide undergraduate and graduate students engaged in research or laboratory activities.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information.
• Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on campus, in-person position.
• There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

Employment Values Statement:

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.