Laser Additive Manufacturing
The Air Force Institute of Technology is offering an opportunity at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.
What will I be doing?
AFIT utilizes laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing systems to produce and evaluate high-temperature metal alloys. As an ORISE participant, you will join a collaborative research environment alongside scientists and researchers exploring ways to improve the manufacturability of these materials and better understand their performance as high-temperature structural materials in oxidizing environments. You will participate in research activities spanning additive manufacturing, materials characterization, mechanical testing, and oxidation behavior. Through this opportunity, you will gain exposure to the full research process from designing and producing test specimens to evaluating material properties, interpreting experimental results, and contributing to ongoing scientific investigations.
Why should I apply?
Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands-on research experience that complements your academic background while strengthening your technical, analytical, and scientific communication skills. This opportunity provides exposure to advanced additive manufacturing technologies and materials research in a collaborative research setting.
Throughout your appointment, you may have opportunities to:
- Design 3D parts to support additive manufacturing and materials research activities.
- Test coupons and components to evaluate material behavior and performance.
- Conduct high-temperature mechanical and oxidation testing to better understand how materials perform in extreme environments.
- Characterize materials using optical and electron microscopy to examine microstructure and material properties.
- Contribute to ongoing research projects, with potential opportunities to co-author scientific papers with AFIT researchers.
Where will I be located?
Dayton, Ohio
What is the anticipated start date?
Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and internships or fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.
What is the appointment length?
This appointment is a twelve-month research appointment, with the possibility of being renewed for additional research periods. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.
What are the provisions?
You will receive a stipend to be determined by AFIT. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other provisions may include the following:
- Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
- Relocation Allowance
- Training and Travel Allowance
About AFIT
The Air Force Institute of Technology, or AFIT, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the Air Force’s graduate school of engineering and management as well as its institution for technical professional continuing education. A component of Air University and Air Education and Training Command, AFIT is committed to providing defense-focused graduate and professional continuing education and research to sustain the technological supremacy of America’s air, space, and cyber forces.
About ORISE
This program, administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD, or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate will have completed or currently be pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree in the fields of study in the eligibility section of this opportunity. Degree must have been received within no more than five years of the appointment start date.
Application Requirements
A complete application consists of:
- Zintellect Profile
- Educational and Employment History
- Essay Questions (goals, experiences, and skills relevant to the opportunity)
- Resume (PDF)
- Transcripts/Academic Records - Please upload a copy of a transcript for your current or most recent degree program that meets the disciplinary qualifications of the opportunity. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
- One Recommendation. We encourage you to contact your recommender(s) as soon as you start your application to ensure they are able to complete the recommendation form and to let them know to expect a message from Zintellect. Recommenders will be asked to rate your scientific capabilities, personal characteristics, and describe how they know you. You can always log back in to your Zintellect account and check the status of your application.
If you have questions, send an email to AIRFORCE@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [AFIT-2026-0023] in the subject line of the email. Please understand that ORISE does not review applications or select applicants; selections are made by the sponsoring agency identified on this opportunity. All application materials should be submitted via the “Apply” button at the bottom of this opportunity listing. Please do not send application materials to the email address above.
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Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
- Degree: Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.
- Discipline(s):