Materials Science and Engineering Postdoctoral Researcher

Idaho National Laboratory; 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

Tuition assistance

Relocation package

Paid time off

Job summary

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate with a materials science and engineering background to join INL’s Materials Performance team. The role focuses on research in materials, performance and characterization for harsh environments, leveraging SEM, TEM, XRD and mechanical testing.

The position is on-site in Idaho Falls with a 9x80 schedule. The candidate will publish findings, contribute to proposals and reports, and work both independently

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (completed by appointment).
• Ability to obtain DOE Q clearance (US citizenship).
• Hands-on experimental research experience.
• Proficiency in advanced data computational and analytical software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development in materials, performance and characterization.
• Provide project management support for projects with compressed timelines.
• Characterize data using SEM, TEM, XRD and mechanical testing.
• Analyze data and develop models for sintering behavior and formation mechanisms.
• Collaborate with INL researchers and external partners on field assisted sintering applications.
• Prepare and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Contribute to research proposals and project reports.

Skills

Hands-on experimental skills

Data analysis software

Excellent written and verbal skills

Independent and collaborative work

Problem-solving ability

Advanced characterization tools

Publications experience

Education

PhD in Materials Science/Metallurgy/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Mechanical testing

Job description

Job Description

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate with a materials science and engineering background. The successful candidate will join INL’s Materials Performance team as part of the Materials and Manufacturing Department within INL’s Energy, Environment Science & Technology Directorate and contribute to research in the areas of materials, performance and characterization, process informed science, design, engineering and assessment of materials and components that operate in nominal to harsh environments (temperature, pressure, ionic concentration, pH, as well as other functional and applications). Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

Responsibilities

• Conduct 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.
• 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

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 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.
• Experience with hands-on experimental research.
• Proficiency in advanced data computational and analytical software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with advanced characterization tools and techniques.
• Demonstrated track record of publications in high-impact scientific journals.

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.

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.

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.