Physical Metallurgy Postdoc: Processing & Properties

Battelle Energy Alliance; Idaho Falls (ID); On-site; USD 100,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

401(k) with employer match

Paid time off

Relocation package

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Idaho National Laboratory seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Physical Metallurgy, Materials Science, or closely related field to study processing-microstructure-property relationships in metallic materials. The role leverages advanced characterization and Thermo-Calc analyses within the Irradiated fuels and Materials Department.

The successful candidate will independently design experiments, perform comprehensive microstructural characterization (SEM/TEM/EBSD/EDS) and mechanical testing,

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Material Science and Engineering, Physical Metallurgy, or a closely related discipline.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Strong academic background in physical metallurgy and metallic materials.
• Experience in microstructural characterization using SEM and/or other advanced techniques.
• Experience in mechanical property testing and interpretation of mechanical behavior.
• Understanding of relationships among materials processing, microstructure, deformation mechanisms, and properties.
• Ability to design experiments, analyze datasets, interpret results, and draw conclusions.
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in physical metallurgy focusing on processing-microstructure-property relationships in metallic materials.
• Plan and execute experiments involving advanced materials processing and manufacturing techniques.
• Perform microstructural characterization using SEM, TEM, EBSD, EDS, and related methods.
• Conduct mechanical property testing (hardness, tensile, creep, fatigue, fracture toughness).
• Analyze microstructural features and relate to processing and performance.
• Use Thermo-Calc to analyze phase stability and transformations.
• Document results via reports, presentations, and publications.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and develop new research concepts.
• Maintain high standards for lab safety and integrity.

Skills

Microstructure analysis

Experimental design

Data interpretation

English communication

Education

PhD in Materials Science

Tools

SEM

TEM

EBSD

EDS

Thermo-Calc

Job description

Idaho National Laboratory seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Physical Metallurgy, Materials Science, or closely related field to study processing-microstructure-property relationships in metallic materials. The role leverages advanced characterization and Thermo-Calc analyses within the Irradiated fuels and Materials Department.

The successful candidate will independently design experiments, perform comprehensive microstructural characterization (SEM/TEM/EBSD/EDS) and mechanical testing,