Postdoctoral Plasma-Facing Component Scientist

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 post-doctoral scientist experienced in assessing high-power plasma-facing components to support the MPEX target and its assembly at ORNL. This role focuses on analyzing performance under loading, predicting component behavior, and guiding design and manufacturing decisions.

The successful candidate will contribute to failure analysis, engage in multidisciplinary collaboration, and report findings through publications and conferences, advancing fusion

Qualifications

• PhD in Engineering Physics, Electrical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field completed within the last 5 years or by June 30, 2027.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and improve the MPEX sample-holder/target assembly station.
• Develop methods to predict performance of MPEX holders/targets under loading.
• Provide science and engineering direction to MPEX target design and manufacturing.
• Perform failure analysis of the MPEX target assembly.
• Participate and/or lead target exposures during MPEX operations.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to sustain high scientific productivity.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environment, and quality requirements.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.

Skills

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

FEA software

Education

PhD in Engineering Physics / Electrical/Nuclear Engineering

Tools

FEA software

Job description

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Postdoctoral Plasma-Facing Component Scientist

The Plasma Facing Components & Engineering (PFCE) Division at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks applications for a post-doctoral candidate experienced in assessing advanced, high-power plasma-facing components to support operations, upgrades, and development of the Material Plasma Exposure eXperiment (MPEX) target and its target assembly system.

MPEX is a linear plasma device under construction at ORNL that enables expanded fusion reactor–relevant material science capabilities, particularly those related to plasma material interaction (PMI) research. MPEX will deliver steady state plasmas to PMI targets with heat fluxes of 10 MW m-2 and particle fluences of 1031m-2 for up to 2-weeks.

As part of our team, you apply analysis methods and design principles associated with deploying plasma-facing components (PFCs) in the divertor region in tokamak-style fusion reactor. This work will lead to predictive characterization and lifetime assessments of similar PFCs.

This position resides in the Diagnostics and Control Group of the PFCE Division. This Group/Division carries out experiment-based research and development work in support of ongoing science and technology research within ORNL’s Fusion and Fission Energy Science Directorate for the U.S. DOE Fusion Energy Sciences Program.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Evaluate and improve the MPEX sample-holder/target assembly station in support of its scientific mission goals.
• Develop methods for understanding and eventually predicting the performance of MPEX sample-holders/targets under loading conditions.
• Provide science and engineering direction to MPEX target design and manufacturing.
• Develop and perform failure analysis of the MPEX target assembly.
• Participate and/or lead target exposures during MPEX operations.
• Work with a multidisciplinary team of research scientists and engineers in the areas of fusion energy research to maintain a high level of scientific productivity.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Create high impact research results to report in peer-reviewed journals and present at professional conferences.
• Maintain commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of ORNL 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:

• PhD in Engineering Physics, Electrical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a closely related field completed within the last 5 years or expect to complete a PhD by June 30th, 2027.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in using finite element analysis (FEA) software or the equivalent, particularly as applied to advanced systems like fusion PFCs.
• Experience with experimental devices in support of fusion energy development, particularly measurement techniques for PFC characterization.
• 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.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge fusion energy research at ORNL, supporting critical experimental infrastructure in collaboration with leading scientists and engineers.

Special Requirements:

• This is a temporary 24-month position. 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.
• For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
• To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
• If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

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.

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.

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.