Postdoctoral Research Associate - Nuclear Fuel Ellipsometry Analysis

Requisition Id15147

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy (DOE) science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will primarily support the Particle Fuel Forms (PFF) Group in the Nuclear Fuel Development (NFD) Section within the Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division.

The PFF Group is a global leader in coated particle fuel research for advanced reactors (e.g., tristructural isotropic (TRISO) coated particle fuel) and emerging nuclear technologies (e.g., space nuclear propulsion). The PFF group supports activities related to both fabrication and post-irradiation examination of coated particle fuel and fuel forms. This position would support anisotropy and microstructural characterization of nuclear fuel materials to establish a link between nuclear fuel materials properties and performance. A focus will be on the use of novel ellipsometry techniques to characterize pyrocarbon and graphite-based materials. Analysis will be used to support larger irradiation efforts and interpretation of new fuel development. The successful candidate will strongly collaborate with staff within the PFF and the Nuclear Fuel Development section.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct fundamental and applied research on pyrocarbon and graphite-based nuclear materials.
• Develop an operational mastery of the two-modulator generalized ellipsometry microscope (2-MGEM).
• Develop a working knowledge of the overall technology and performance of TRISO fuel.
• Interface with PFF research staff to present and report research results and publish results in technical reports and peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality assurance requirements.
• Effectively communicate and collaborate with other technical staff and interface with staff outside of the home organization to meet research objectives.

Basic Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in materials science, physics, chemistry, nuclear engineering, or related disciplines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with ellipsometry
• Experience with data analysis and Excel
• Experience with data analysis programming (visual studio/visual basic)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment and set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines.

Special Requirements:

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.