The basic and applied research focuses on the design, synthesis, and development of novel compounds/resins/polymers with unique high-temperature properties, flame resistant composites, and novel thermal protection system technologies. Potential applications for the innovative materials include structural (e.g., hypersonic vehicles, aircraft, ship, automobile, and missile), coating, and composite applications. Our research activities have resulted in the development and transition to applied DOD programs and to industry of novel high-temperature polymers/composites. A wide range of instruments are available for characterization and evaluation studies of the new materials in addition to collaborations with other DoD laboratories, industrial partners, and academic institutions. Experience with photochemical reactions, dye synthesis, and  characterization is a bonus.

 

References

(1) Brown, L. C.; Davis, C. R.; Kerr, A. T.; Laskoski, M. Heterocyclic self-curing phthalonitrile resins. Reactive and Functional Polymers 2025, 215, 106383. DOI: 10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2025.106383.

(2) Sitter, J. D.; Richardson, T.; Wallace, J. M.; Lusk, C.; Brown, L. C.; Laskoski, M. Vanillin based phthalonitrile and acetylene bifunctional resins. Journal of Applied Polymer Science 2024, 141 (35), e55879. DOI: 10.1002/app.55879.

(3) Laskoski, M.; Brown, L. C.; Kerr, A. T. Synthesis and properties of a sustainable, vanillin-based phthalonitrile resin. Journal of Polymer Science 2024, 62 (23), 5459-5466. DOI: 10.1002/pol.20240187.

key words

Polymers; Resins; Heterocyclic chemistry; Carbon-carbon composites; Organic matrix composites; additive manufacturing

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.