Postdoc Research Assoc. -Organic & Critical Minerals Separation Chemist

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

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Organic Chemistry and/or Critical Materials Separation Science to develop ligands and sorbents for Ga and Ge separations. You will conduct organic synthesis, materials characterization, solvent extraction, and solid-phase separation in the Nanomaterials Chemistry Group, within the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section.

You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and

Qualifications

• PhD in organic or inorganic or polymer chemistry, materials science or a related field completed within the last 5 years.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize organic ligands, functionalization of resins, polymers.
• Design and execute adsorption based solid-liquid and liquid-liquid separation experiments.
• Use analytical techniques such as NMR, MS, FT-IR, TGA, DSC, XRD, BET, SEM for characterization.
• Perform ion separation experiments, use ICP to determine ion concentrations.
• Collaborate with ORNL staff, University collaborators, Industry partners.

Skills

separations chemistry

ligand synthesis

sorbent extraction

analytical techniques

Education

PhD in chemistry or materials science

Tools

ICP-OES

ICP-MS

NMR

FT-IR

XRD

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate in Organic Chemistry and/or Critical Materials Separation Science to develop next-generation ligands and functionalized sorbents for the selective extraction and recovery of gallium (Ga), germanium (Ge), and other critical minerals from complex zinc-processing feedstocks. The successful candidate will conduct organic synthesis, materials characterization, solvent extraction, and solid-phase separation studies to advance sustainable critical mineral recovery technologies. This position resides in the Nanomaterials Chemistry Group in the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

As part of our research team, you will be responsible for delivering high impact research results to advance the work on Gallium and Germanium separations. You will be very closely working with specialists in synthesis, separations chemistry, radiochemistry, theory, spectroscopy, and materials characterization. This project will develop materials and processing technologies that will result in a transformational improvement in separation and recovery methods for Gallium and Germanium.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize organic ligands, functionalization of resins, polymers.
• Design and execute adsorption based solid-liquid and liquid-liquid separation experiments to meet project goals.
• Use analytical techniques such as NMR, MS, FT-IR, TGA, DSC, XRD, BET, SEM for characterization.
• Perform ion separation experiments, use ICP to determine ion concentrations.
• Collaborate with ORNL staff, University collaborators, Industry partners who are involved in the project.
• Participate in project planning and execution.
• Present and report research results at the project, group, PI meetings and national conferences.
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.
  

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. in organic or inorganic or polymer chemistry, materials science or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in separations chemistry of metal ions, most desirably experience with Gallium and/or transition metals/lanthanides and experience with electrochemical separation is a plus.
• Experience in ligand synthesis, functionalization of resins or polymers.
• Experience with sorbent extraction, adsorption, or packed-column systems for separation and use of appropriate analytical techniques such as ICP-OES or ICP-MS.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
• Hands-on experience designing, synthesizing, characterizing, and evaluating materials for separation applications.
• A strong track record of productive and creative research proven by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• 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.
  

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.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.
  

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.

• Ph.D. in organic or inorganic or polymer chemistry, materials science or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• 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.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.