Postdoctoral Research Associate - AI-Driven Autonomous Spectroscopy

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) invites applications from highly motivated researchers to develop and operate automated spectroscopy platforms (IR, Raman, NMR) for solution-phase reactions. You will implement AI/ML-guided, closed-loop experiments that adaptively select conditions to detect weak signals and build data workflows for multimodal data integration with simulations.

You will collaborate with ORNL staff and students, plan and execute projects, and present results at conferences and

Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry, physics, chemical engineering or related field.
• Experience with vibrational (IR, Raman) and/or NMR spectroscopy.
• Experience with laboratory automation, instrument control, or autonomous experimentation using Python.
• Experience applying machine learning to experimental data.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and operate automated spectroscopy platforms (IR, Raman, NMR) for measurements of solution-phase reactions across varied solvent environments and reaction conditions.
• Implement AI/ML-guided, closed-loop experiments that adaptively select conditions to detect weak, transient spectroscopic signals.
• Build data acquisition and analysis workflows for multimodal spectroscopic data and work with computational collaborators to integrate measurements with simulations.
• Participate in project planning and execution.
• Work with ORNL staff and other postdoctoral research associates and students to accomplish the research goals.
• Present and report research results at meetings and conferences and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• 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.

Skills

Vibrational spectroscopy (IR/Raman)

NMR spectroscopy

Laboratory automation

Python programming

Machine learning

Written and oral communication

Independence / self-starter

Adaptability in fast-paced environment

Instrument control

Education

PhD in chemistry, physics, chemical engineering or related field

Tools

Python

Job description

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Develop and operate automated spectroscopy platforms (IR, Raman, NMR) for measurements of solution-phase reactions across varied solvent environments and reaction conditions.
• Implement AI/ML-guided, closed-loop experiments that adaptively select conditions to detect weak, transient spectroscopic signals.
• Build data acquisition and analysis workflows for multimodal spectroscopic data and work with computational collaborators to integrate measurements with simulations.
• Participate in project planning and execution.
• Work with ORNL staff and other postdoctoral research associates and students to accomplish the research goals.
• Present and report research results at meetings and conferences and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• 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

• A PhD in chemistry, physics, chemical engineering or a related field completed within the last 5 years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with vibrational (IR, Raman) and/or NMR spectroscopy, ideally applied to reaction kinetics or solvation in solution.
• Experience with laboratory automation, instrument control, or autonomous experimentation using Python.
• Experience applying machine learning to experimental data.
• 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.

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.

For foreign national candidates:
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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: [e-mail].

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.