Summary

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on studies at liquid-liquid interfaces of relevance to chemical separations using a suite of surface-specific optical spectroscopies, scattering techniques, and ultrafast pump probe spectroscopies. This work aims to uncover mechanistic insight into how ion partitioning and local gradients at interfaces can be controlled using external stimuli. The position resides in the Chemical Dynamics Group in the Chemical Transformation Section, Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The postdoc will work within a multidisciplinary multi-institutional team involving experts in spectroscopy, separation chemistry, and theory.

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on studies at liquid-liquid interfaces of relevance to chemical separations using a suite of surface-specific optical spectroscopies, scattering techniques, and ultrafast pump probe spectroscopies. This work aims to uncover mechanistic insight into how ion partitioning and local gradients at interfaces can be controlled using external stimuli. The position resides in the Chemical Dynamics Group in the Chemical Transformation Section, Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The postdoc will work within a multidisciplinary multi-institutional team involving experts in spectroscopy, separation chemistry, and theory.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

Apply surface specific nonlinear optical spectroscopies to the study of liquid-liquid interfaces during liquid extraction.
Use vibrational pump-probe spectroscopies to study molecular mechanisms and dynamics of extraction phases.
Design new approaches to probe stimulus-driven interfaces at and away from equilibrium.
Develop efficient data analysis protocols to uncover meaningful patterns and insights from experimental data and work with theorists to help interpret results.
Assist in carrying out neutron/x-ray scattering experiments.
Participate in project planning and execution.
Work with ORNL staff and other postdoctoral research associates and students to accomplish research goals.
Present and report research results at meetings and conferences and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.

Basic Qualifications

A PhD in chemistry, physics, chemical engineering or a related field completed within the last 5 years.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with ultrafast laser-based spectroscopies or microscopies, with special emphasis on infrared vibrational techniques (i.e., vibrational sum-frequency generation, IR-transient absorption, 2D-IR, etc.).
Experience controlling hardware and data analysis using Python/Matlab.
Experience with wet chemistry, chemical separations or studies of liquid interfaces.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
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. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Requirements

PhD in chemistry, physics, chemical engineering or a related field
PhD completed within the last 5 years
Must complete all degree requirements before starting appointment
Experience with ultrafast laser-based spectroscopies or microscopies (preferred)
Experience with infrared vibrational techniques such as vibrational sum-frequency generation, IR-transient absorption, 2D-IR (preferred)
Experience controlling hardware and data analysis using Python/Matlab (preferred)
Experience with wet chemistry, chemical separations or studies of liquid interfaces (preferred)
Excellent written and oral communication skills (preferred)
Ability to work independently and in collaborative teams (preferred)

Benefits

Medical Plan
Retirement Plans
Flexible Work Hours
On-Site Fitness Facilities
On-Site Banking
On-Site Cafeteria
Prescription Drug Plan
Dental Plan
Vision Plan
401(k) Retirement Plan
Contributory Pension Plan
Life Insurance
Disability Benefits
Vacation and Holidays
Parental Leave
Legal Insurance
Identity Theft Protection
Employee Assistance Plan
Flexible Spending Accounts
Health Savings Accounts
Wellness Programs
Educational Assistance
Relocation Assistance
Employee Discounts

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.