Distinguished Research Professional, IMCS

ReadyGoNuke; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

ORNL's Incident Modeling and Computational Sciences (IMCS) group seeks a Distinguished Research Professional to lead advanced research in nuclear incident modeling, analytics, and software deployment for radiological and national security applications. The role requires a Ph.D.

with extensive experience and a track record of managing multi‑disciplinary programs, with the ability to coordinate across directorates and national laboratories to deliver impactful solutions.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Physics, or related field with a minimum of 12 years of experience (or MS degree with 16 years).
• Experience managing national security programs related to research and/or operations.
• Demonstrated ability to assemble and lead multi-disciplinary and multi-entity teams to deliver national security solutions.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate broad and deep understanding of current nuclear security threats and lead solution development from basic research to deployed technologies.
• Engage across the division, directorate, and laboratory to expand ORNL impact on national security missions.
• Mentor junior staff and document work in technical reports, papers, and presentations.

Education

Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering or Physics

Job description

Distinguished Research Professional, IMCS

Oak Ridge, TN, US

Requisition Id 16863

Overview

Within the NND, the Incident Modeling and Computational Sciences (IMCS) group focuses on modeling, analytics, and software development for nuclear incidents, such as nuclear weapon fallout prediction for support of forensics and consequence management or facility accident modeling in support of response planning. The IMCS group seeks applicants for a senior research professional position with a background in novel signals acquisition and interpretation, research-to-deployment of new technologies for radiological and nuclear event response operations, and broad expertise in nuclear forensics, nonproliferation, and counterproliferation research. The successful candidate will develop and lead a research and development portfolio that leverages the capabilities of multiple ORNL directorates and teams with other national laboratories to deliver new, effective solutions to emerging national security needs.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• The successful candidate will demonstrate a broad and deep understanding of current and evolving nuclear security threat, technical proficiency in relevant research areas, and leadership in solution development from basic research to transitioned and deployed technologies.
• The successful candidate will be expected to engage programmatically and technically across the division, directorate, and laboratory to help sustain and grow ORNL impact on national security missions.
• The successful candidate is expected to work well both in a team environment and independently and to fully document work performed in technical reports, papers, and presentations.
• The successful candidate will mentor and develop junior staff in professional and technical career growth.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of institution values and ethics.

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Physics, or related field and a minimum of 12 years of experience or MS degree and 16 years of experience.
• Experience managing national security programs related to research and/or operations.
• Demonstrated ability to assemble and lead multi-disciplinary and multi-entity teams to deliver national security solutions.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills, a willingness to apply those skills to a variety of problems, and the ability to determine and understand the broader context of their research.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated history of working with and team building across professional domains, from junior research staff through high-level federal program managers.
• Experience in nuclear nonproliferation, counterproliferation, or other related fields.
• Familiarity with national laboratory research and development life cycles.

Special Requirements

• Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements: Q clearance with SCI: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program. In addition, due the SCI, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing.
• Visa sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About ORNL

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well‑being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following:

• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.