A Research Assistant assists with a research program or project. Works in a variety of fields within science or the social sciences, in programs based at a university or research institution, or works on government or industry sponsored research projects. Conducts field or library research or recruits participants for a study; may also assist with legal research. Typically conduct research under the guidance of senior researchers or professors. These roles are often held by undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees in relevant fields, or individuals with relevant work experience.
Job Summary Position Summary The Purdue Polytechnic Institute at Purdue University invites applications for a Research Development Postdoctoral Fellow position focused on large-scale interdisciplinary center grant initiatives and strategic research development activities. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, research administrators, and external collaborators to support the development of competitive research proposals and strategic research initiatives aligned with Purdue Polytechnic's following research priorities: Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Smart Cities, Smart Manufacturing, and Digital Health. The targeting funding agencies include but are not limited to NSF, DOE, DoT, and NIH. Key Responsibilities Identify and support large-scale interdisciplinary grant opportunities aligned with Purdue Polytechnic research priorities. Assist faculty teams with proposal development, writing, editing, and coordination for center-scale funding initiatives. Participate in PI meetings and contribute as proposal support personnel, co-PI, or senior personnel where appropriate. Coordinate proposal timelines, meetings, documentation, and submission activities across internal and external collaborators. Collaborate with SPS, faculty, and partner organizations to support strategic research planning and interdisciplinary partnerships. Required Qualifications Ph.D. in Engineering, Computer Science, Manufacturing, Aviation, or a closely related field. Strong publication record in one or more relevant research areas. Excellent written, organizational, and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary environments. Strong project coordination and organizational skills. Experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate students. This is a full-time, one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. Salary will be commensurate with Purdue University standards and institutional policies (anticipated range approximately $60,000 annually plus benefits).
Applicants should submit:
Cover letter describing research interests, proposal development experience, and career goals Curriculum vitae (CV) Research statement Contact information for three professional references Selected publications and/or writing samples Review of applications will begin immediately. For full consideration, applications should be submitted no later than July 10, 2026. Preferred start date is August 17, 2026, or earlier if mutually agreed upon. About Purdue Polytechnic Research The Purdue Polytechnic Institute at Purdue Polytechnic Institute advances interdisciplinary, applied, and industry-connected research across emerging technology domains. Faculty and researchers collaborate closely with industry, government agencies, and academic partners to address real-world challenges in advanced manufacturing, digital transformation, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, aviation technologies, and smart infrastructure systems. The college emphasizes translational research, workforce innovation, and large-scale collaborative initiatives that drive technological advancement and societal impact. For more information about the Polytechnic Research, please visit: https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/research Education 0 Experience 0 FLSA Status Exempt Apply now
