Postdoc: Polymer Chemist for Advanced Fibers

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Organic/Polymer Chemistry for Advanced Fibers to advance polymer chemistries for high‑performance fibers and to scale up manufacturing processes. The role emphasizes collaboration across experimental and simulation teams and publishing findings.

The candidate will drive research on precursor chemistries for carbon and other advanced fibers, work with industrial partners, and contribute to ORNL's mission in materials

Qualifications

• PhD completed within the last five years with a strong background in polymer synthesis for advanced fibers, characterization, and processing.
• Expertise in polymer chemistry or processing for developing advanced fiber precursors.
• Experience in advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Hands-on experience in polymer synthesis and advanced characterization techniques (Preferred).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English for international audiences (Preferred).
• Ability to work independently and in collaborative teams in a fast-paced research environment (Preferred).

Responsibilities

• Develop polymer chemistries for advanced fiber applications and scale‑up manufacturing.
• Analyze experimental data and calibrate simulation parameters based on lab results.
• Establish and manage collaborations with industry partners; present and publish results.
• Contribute to safety, ethics, and quality programs while advancing research goals.

Skills

Polymer chemistry

Polymer synthesis

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science & Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering

Job description

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Organic/Polymer Chemistry for Advanced Fibers to advance polymer chemistries for high‑performance fibers and to scale up manufacturing processes. The role emphasizes collaboration across experimental and simulation teams and publishing findings.

The candidate will drive research on precursor chemistries for carbon and other advanced fibers, work with industrial partners, and contribute to ORNL's mission in materials