Automation Materials Chemist - Postdoctoral Researcher
Ora
Summary
We are seeking Postdoctoral Researchers to conduct research in the automated, high-throughput monitoring and mitigation of metal degradation. You will develop and automate a high-throughput platform, integrating multi-modal electrochemical and spectroscopic methods, to evaluate degradation mechanisms across metals and chemical environments. You will work closely with chemists, materials scientists, electrical and mechanical engineers, and automation specialists to develop integrated experimental systems for high-throughput materials screening and degradation monitoring.
Job description
You will
- Develop automated, high-throughput platforms and workflows for degradation monitoring and materials evaluation.
- Design and execute electrochemistry, spectroscopy, and complementary analytical experiments to characterize metal degradation, corrosion, and related electrochemical processes.
- Develop ex situ and operando measurement protocols to investigate the effects of chemical environments and reactive species on metal degradation mechanisms.
- Collaborate with engineers to integrate electrochemical, Raman, fluid-handling, robotic, and data-acquisition systems.
- Define system requirements, testing workflows, and interfaces for newly developed automated platforms.
- Pursue independent but complementary research interests and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists internally and externally to the Laboratory.
- Maintain laboratory protocols, equipment, and best safety practices.
- Document research; publish papers in peer-reviewed journals, and present results within the DOE community and at conferences.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
- PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Corrosion Science, or a related field.
- Experience with programming for data analysis, instrument control, automation, or visualization.
- Experience integrating laboratory instruments, sensors, robotics, fluidics, or automated sample-handling systems.
- Experience with electrochemical characterization of metals, coatings, polymers, or related materials.
- Knowledge of metal degradation, corrosion mechanisms, electrochemical aging, or materials durability.
- Proficient verbal and written communication skills as reflected in effective presentations at seminars, meetings and/or teaching lectures.
- Initiative and interpersonal skills with desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
Qualifications We Desire
- Experience designing, formulating, synthesizing, and characterizing polymer coatings and other protective materials for metals.
- Experience with operando or in situ characterization methods, including Raman spectroscopy, for chemical and structural materials characterization.
- Experience with statistical analysis, design of experiments, machine learning, or predictive modeling.
- Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
Requirements
- Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
- PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Corrosion Science, or a related field.
- Experience with programming for data analysis, instrument control, automation, or visualization.
- Experience integrating laboratory instruments, sensors, robotics, fluidics, or automated sample-handling systems.
- Experience with electrochemical characterization of metals, coatings, polymers, or related materials.
- Knowledge of metal degradation, corrosion mechanisms, electrochemical aging, or materials durability.
- Proficient verbal and written communication skills as reflected in effective presentations at seminars, meetings and/or teaching lectures.
- Initiative and interpersonal skills with desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
- Experience designing, formulating, synthesizing, and characterizing polymer coatings and other protective materials for metals.
- Experience with operando or in situ characterization methods, including Raman spectroscopy, for chemical and structural materials characterization.
- Experience with statistical analysis, design of experiments, machine learning, or predictive modeling.
- Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Relocation Assistance
- Education Reimbursement Program
- Flexible Schedules
- Flexible Benefits Package
Company overview
Ora is the world's leading full-service ophthalmic drug and device development firm, operating as a specialized contract research organization (CRO) focused exclusively on ophthalmology. Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, the company has over 45 years of experience in advancing eye care innovations globally. Ora provides comprehensive research and development services spanning preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory strategy, and product development for both pharmaceutical and medical device companies. With operations across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Asia, the company has helped clients achieve more than 85 product approvals to date. Ora's expertise covers a wide range of ophthalmic conditions including allergy, dry eye, retina diseases, glaucoma, and anti-infective therapies. The company employs over 500 ophthalmology specialists who utilize proprietary clinical models, integrated data solutions, and global regulatory strategies to accelerate product development from concept to market. Ora serves a diverse client base ranging from startups to global pharmaceutical and device companies, positioning itself as the trusted partner for ophthalmic innovation worldwide.