High Temperature Composite Materials Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory (INL); Idaho Falls (ID); On-site; USD 89,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

401(k) with employer contribution/matc

Tuition assistance

Paid time off

Relocation package

Education program

Job summary

Idaho National Laboratory's Materials Properties and Performance group seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher with strong materials science background in high temperature composites. The role covers design, synthesis, microstructure characterization, and property evaluation of oxide-oxide, non-oxide, and carbon-carbon fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites for harsh environments.

The successful candidate will explore processing optimization, novel synthesis methods, and continuum modeling while

Qualifications

• Background in ceramic and composite processing or related materials science.
• Experience with microstructure characterization techniques and mechanical testing.
• Strong communication skills and ability to publish results.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hands-on research on high temperature composites and related materials.
• Characterize materials using SEM, TEM, XRD and mechanical testing methods.
• Develop models to understand sintering behavior and microstructural evolution.
• Collaborate with INL researchers and external partners.
• Prepare research findings for peer‑reviewed journals and conferences.

Education

PhD in Materials Science and Engineering

Job description

Idaho National Laboratory's Materials Properties and Performance group is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with Materials Science experience in high temperature material composites space to drive work on the design, synthesis, advanced microstructure characterization, and properties evaluation of high temperature composites such as oxide-oxide, non-oxide, and carbon-carbon fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composite materials.

The selected candidate will have the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the material chemistry-process-microstructure-property-performance paradigm; to utilize advanced testing methodologies to assess material and composite performance; to examine new structural/functional materials and composite systems designed for advanced reactors and other harsh high temperature environments. As well as perform modeling activities on thermal, electrical, and mechanical behavior to tailor processing conditions. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

The High Temperature Composite Materials Postdoctoral Researcher will join the on-going and future efforts in the Advance Manufacturing Group with a focus on:

• Optimize the processing of newly developed composite and layered materials, oxide-oxide, and ceramic/carbon composite systems to obtain optimal size distribution, densification, and sintering behavior.
• Explore novel chemical, thermal, and mechanochemical powder synthesis techniques for ceramic matrix and composite precursor materials.
• Optimize sintering and densification routes and microstructural development in composites using state-of-the-art spark plasma/electric field assisted sintering as well as other techniques.
• Study the microstructure of newly developed materials and composites, and the environmental degradation of novel materials and composite systems, using mechanical (fracture mechanics) as well as other advanced characterization techniques.
• Design, fabricate, and characterize carbon-carbon fiber composites, including fiber architecture selection, matrix densification, and evaluation of thermal and mechanical performance under extreme environments.
• Perform continuum scale modeling of composite materials and structures using commercially available methods and software.
• Conduct research into the underlying mechanisms behind the microstructural evolution and degradation of ceramics and composites subjected to extreme environments.
• Perform thermodynamic modeling to understand the effect of compositional and processing condition changes on the equilibrium state of ceramic and composite material systems

The position will allow significant interaction with researchers with varying backgrounds and additional opportunities for professional development. Ideal candidates will have background/experience in topics such as ceramic and composite processing, phase transformation, microstructural characterization, mechanical properties, finite element analysis modeling of thermal and mechanical material behavior, and fiber reinforced composites.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct hands-on research, development in the areas outlined above.
• Project management support for projects with compressed timeline.
• Characterize/understand how to interpret data collected from materials using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and mechanical testing.
• Analyze experimental data and develop models to understand the sintering behavior and mechanisms of formation in materials.
• Understanding of mechanical properties such as tensile, creep, fatigue, and Charpy-V notch toughness.
• Collaborate with other researchers and engineers within INL and with external partners to advance the understanding and application of field assisted sintering as it pertains to materials for harsh environments.
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposals.
• Contribute to the preparation of research project reports

Job Information

The pay for this position is $105,144.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

Required

• PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Materials Science, or other related and relevant discipline.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years of graduation.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.
• Knowledge of ceramic materials, ceramic processing, sintering, and complex phase diagrams required.
• Understanding of materials performance issues for materials under extreme environments is required.
• Prior publications in high impact journals with microstructure characterization is required.
• Excellent communications skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as a team member.
• Self-motivated, but also works collaboratively with peers and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Fluency in the English language and excellent oral and written communication skills.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Position requires the ability to smell. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.

INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.