Nonproliferation Nuclear Engineer Postdoctoral Researcher

UT-Battelle; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

UT-Battelle is seeking a Postdoctoral Nuclear Engineer in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division at ORNL to conduct R&D in nuclear nonproliferation with modeling and simulation of reactor physics and fuel-cycle assessments.

The role involves developing methods for radionuclide inventories, source terms, and detector responses, with emphasis on cross-divisional collaboration and compliance with safety and quality programs.

Qualifications

• PhD in nuclear engineering completed within the last 5 years.
• Strong understanding of nuclear reactor physics and related research.
• Experience with neutron transport and reactor analysis software.

Responsibilities

• Perform R&D in nuclear reactor analysis and modeling/simulation.
• Model conceptual advanced reactors and assess safeguards metrics.
• Collaborate across divisions to support NNSA/DOE programs.
• Prepare and present periodic reports of research activities.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality programs.

Skills

Nuclear reactor physics

Neutron transport

Python

C++

Matlab

JavaScript

Education

PhD in nuclear engineering

Tools

SCALE

MCNP

OpenMC

Serpent

VERA

MOOSE

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Nuclear Engineer in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division (NND), division operating within the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The NND performs research and development to detect, characterize, and monitor nuclear fuel cycle activities and nuclear explosions; develops concepts, approaches, and technologies to strengthen global security for nuclear and radiological material; and engages with federal agencies to enhance international nonproliferation regimes.

Requisition Id 17105

Overview

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Nuclear Engineer in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division (NND), division operating within the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The NND performs research and development to detect, characterize, and monitor nuclear fuel cycle activities and nuclear explosions; develops concepts, approaches, and technologies to strengthen global security for nuclear and radiological material; and engages with federal agencies to enhance international nonproliferation regimes. The Postdoctoral Nuclear Engineer will conduct R&D in nuclear nonproliferation with expertise in computational nuclear reactor physics through modeling and simulation (M&S). The candidate will perform analysis and methods development in areas such as reactor core physics, nuclear fuel cycle assessments, radionuclide inventories, and source terms. The major customers of the work performed in this group are the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), the Department of Energy (DOE), and other government agencies.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Perform research and development in the areas of nuclear reactor analysis M&S, including some or all the following:
  • steady-state and depletion core analysis,
  • fuel cycle analysis and evaluations,
  • research reactor design and analysis,
  • characterization of isotopic content of nuclear materials, and
  • detector response to radiation sources.
• Model conceptual advanced reactors and their subsystems.
• Evaluate safeguards metrics during hypothetical reactor misuse scenarios.
• Collaborate across divisions and directorates with researchers and engineers to execute excising NNSA programs.
• Prepare and present periodic reports documenting research and development activities.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain a strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.
• Occasional travel to support domestic and international engagements related to work scope.

Basic Qualifications

• Candidates for this position must have a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering completed within the last 5 years.
• Understanding of the physics of nuclear reactors backed by demonstrated recent and relevant research and development in the field is a fundamental requirement of this position.
• Experience with neutron transport and reactor analysis software (SCALE code system, MCNP, OpenMC, Serpent, VERA, MOOSE codes, etc.).
• Experience with common programming and scripting languages (e.g., Python, C++, Matlab, JavaScript).

Preferred Qualifications

• As this position works in interdisciplinary fields, knowledge of codes in related disciplines, such as thermal hydraulics, actinide chemistry, fuel cycle analysis, particle physics, or uncertainty quantification.
• A minimum of two years of recent experience in nuclear reactor analysis and/or reactor analysis methods development Experience with various operating systems, high-performance computing, and SLURM systems.
• Familiarity with nuclear nonproliferation goals, concepts, and approaches (e.g., international safeguards, domestic material control and accounting).
• 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.
• Excellent verbal, presentation, and writing skills are required to enable effective interaction and communication with technical peers, program managers, and sponsors.

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.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a 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.

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, and 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.