Postdoctoral Research Associate- Fusion Materials & Technology

Overview

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher who will focus on the development and application of separation techniques and fusion materials performance assessment that have applications in multiple sectors of importance in the Department of Energy. The primary focus will be developing separation methods using mass spectrometry including microfluidics, MEMS, and mass spectrometry to study gaseous mixtures and apply such techniques in separation of hydrogen isotopes from contaminants.

The postdoctoral researcher will also investigate the mechanical and thermophysical behavior of irradiated ceramics and alloys for tritium technology development using advanced experimental and computational methods. The researcher will perform characterization of model systems using techniques such as time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD).

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Perform experimental research to evaluate the effects of neutron irradiation on the mechanical and thermophysical properties of nuclear ceramics, composites, and related fusion materials.
• Conduct detailed microstructural and defect characterization of irradiated materials using advanced techniques such as transmission and scanning electron microscopy, SIMS, APT, and related methods.
• Set up and perform experiments involving vacuum pumps, flow meters, and microfluidic reactors to conduct experiments to study model gas mixtures containing hydrogen isotopes using mass spectrometry.
• Understand fundamental separation principles and have hands-on experience in operating advanced analytical instruments such as ToF-SIMS, SEM, or Raman.
• Perform data analysis of mass spectrometry (i.e., GC-MS, LC-MS, SIMS) and microscopy data sets and coordinate between experimental studies and theoretical simulations.
• Communicate research results through timely peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, conference presentations, and collaboration with internal ORNL teams and external partners, including contributions to proposals and project development.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemistry (i.e., Analytical, Physical), or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Demonstrated skills and hands-on experiences with advanced materials characterization equipment and/or data analysis tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with multiple advanced materials characterization techniques, including mechanical testing, high-resolution microscopy, and in situ spectroscopy and mass spectrometry methods.
• A minimum of 1 year of experience in microfluidics and/or MEMS fabrication.
• A minimum of 1 year of experience in ToF-SIMS or other MS techniques.
• Experience with processing and evaluations of large MS and microscopy data sets.
• Experience with operation of ToF-SIMS, APT, SEM, TEM, and XRD instrument.
• Strong background in mass spectrometry, vacuum technology, and hands-on laboratory experiences.
• Strong background in modern techniques in separation, including sample preparation, handling, instrument operation, and maintenance.
• An excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within interdisciplinary, collaborative research teams, including mentoring students, managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and adapting to evolving research and programmatic needs.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

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. This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.