
Dr. Garam Kim is an Assistant Professor in the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology at Purdue University. He completed his Ph.D. degree at the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology in 2021. He is an affiliated faculty member in the Composites Manufacturing and Simulation Center (CMSC) and manages the Reisbeck Advanced Composite Laboratory (RACL) with Professors R. Byron Pipes and Ronald Sterkenburg. Dr. Kim has over 10 years of experience in fiber-reinforced composite structures manufacturing, testing, and characterization. His research focuses on additive manufacturing, surface coatings, composites machining process optimization, composite structural testing, composites mechanical and thermal property analysis, and advanced composite manufacturing technologies. He has worked closely with multiple aircraft industry organizations in pursuit of industrially sponsored research and development projects. Prior to his doctoral studies, he received certification as a FAA Airframe & Power plant mechanic (A&P) and served as an aircraft maintenance technician in the Republic of Korea Air Force with J-85 and F404 engines.
Graduate Research Assistant Positions Available (2025 Fall Semester)
We are seeking a highly self-motivated Graduate Research Assistant to support research in the following areas:
(1) 3D printed tooling for fiber-reinforced composite part manufacturing
(2) Recycling/upcycling of fiber-reinforced composite materials
The ideal candidates will pursue a Ph.D. in Technology or Aviation Technology and Management at the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology, Polytechnic Institute, Purdue University.
Qualification
- A bachelor’s and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, material science engineering, aerospace engineering, technology, or related fields is required.
- Interests or experiences in one or more of the following areas are preferred:
- Composite Part & Tool Design
- Composite Manufacturing Technologies
- Composites Machining
- Composites Testing and Characterization
- Composites Sustainability
- Multi-functional Composites
- Structural Simulation
- Experience with CAM software (CATIA or Mastercam) and CNC operation.
How to Apply:
Please email Dr. Garam Kim, kim1652@purdue.edu with the following materials: (1) CV and (2) (unofficial) Transcripts