Data Center Thermal Systems Scientist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks an R&D Associate focused on data center thermal management technologies. This role sits in the Multifunctional Equipment Integration Group, within the Thermal Systems Science Section, and reports to the Energy Science and Technology Directorate in Oak Ridge, TN.

The ideal candidate will design and perform experiments, analyze results, publish scholarly work, and collaborate with lab scientists while upholding ORNL's safety and ethics commitments.

Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.
• At least 2 years of data center thermal management research experience.
• Ability to adapt to evolving research scope and collaborate across teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and conduct experiments on data center thermal management technologies.
• Analyze experimental data and publish results in peer‑reviewed venues.
• Collaborate with scientists to maintain high productivity and standards.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and quality programs.
• Support ORNL’s values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Skills

Communication

Independent worker

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CFD tools

Analytical modelling

Data center cooling

Job description

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks an R&D Associate focused on data center thermal management technologies. This role sits in the Multifunctional Equipment Integration Group, within the Thermal Systems Science Section, and reports to the Energy Science and Technology Directorate in Oak Ridge, TN.

The ideal candidate will design and perform experiments, analyze results, publish scholarly work, and collaborate with lab scientists while upholding ORNL's safety and ethics commitments.