High-Temperature Materials Experiments and EPMA - Postdoctoral Researcher
Ora
Summary
We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate material reactions and interface evolution through controlled high-temperature experiments and quantitative electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). You will design and conduct diffusion-couple, phase-equilibrium, reaction-zone, and thermomechanical experiments, including experiments using Gleeble systems as applicable. You will characterize compositional gradients, phase formation, interdiffusion, segregation, and reaction-zone evolution using EPMA and complementary materials-characterization methods. You will interpret experimental results using thermodynamics, phase equilibria, and kinetic principles, and collaborate with researchers in materials characterization, metallurgy, computational modeling, and data science. This position is in the MicroAnalytical Signatures Group within the Nuclear and Chemical Sciences Division.
Job description
You will
- Plan and execute high-temperature materials experiments using established and developing experimental methods.
- Design and conduct diffusion-couple, thermomechanical, and heat-treatment experiments, including use of Gleeble systems, furnaces, or comparable equipment.
- Prepare, characterize, and analyze samples using quantitative EPMA, including wavelength-dispersive spectroscopy (WDS), compositional mapping, and standards-based measurements.
- Collect, analyze, document, and interpret experimental data related to composition, processing conditions, phases, microstructure, diffusion, and interfacial reactions.
- Apply thermodynamic, phase-equilibrium, and kinetic principles to interpret material behavior and develop scientifically supported conclusions.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of experimentalists, computational modelers, metallurgists, and data scientists.
- Contribute to technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and research proposals.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and support safe, secure, and compliant laboratory operations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.
- Ph.D. in materials science or engineering, metallurgy, ceramic science, geology, geochemistry, experimental petrology, chemistry, mineral physics, applied physics, or a related experimental scientific discipline.
- Experience with EPMA/WDS or related quantitative electron-beam microanalysis techniques.
- Experience designing and conducting high-temperature experiments.
- Knowledge of thermodynamics, phase equilibria, reaction kinetics, diffusion, or related materials-science principles.
- Ability to interpret relationships among composition, processing conditions, phases, and microstructure.
- Record of independent research, peer-reviewed publication, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Qualifications We Desire
- Experience operating Gleeble systems, thermomechanical testing equipment, controlled-atmosphere furnaces, or similar high-temperature experimental systems.
- Experience with quantitative EPMA method development, standards, matrix corrections, and compositional mapping.
- Experience with diffusion-couple, phase-equilibrium, reaction-zone, or interface-evolution experiments.
- Experience with CALPHAD, thermochemical modeling, diffusion modeling, or kinetic analysis.
- Experience with complementary characterization methods, including SEM/EDS, EBSD, FIB-SEM, XRD, or TEM.
- Experience handling actinide, radioactive, air-sensitive, or other controlled materials.
Requirements
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.
- Ph.D. in materials science or engineering, metallurgy, ceramic science, geology, geochemistry, experimental petrology, chemistry, mineral physics, applied physics, or a related experimental scientific discipline.
- Experience with EPMA/WDS or related quantitative electron-beam microanalysis techniques.
- Experience designing and conducting high-temperature experiments.
- Knowledge of thermodynamics, phase equilibria, reaction kinetics, diffusion, or related materials-science principles.
- Ability to interpret relationships among composition, processing conditions, phases, and microstructure.
- Record of independent research, peer-reviewed publication, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
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.