Postdoctoral Research Associate- Analytical Chemist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Analytical Chemistry to join their innovative team. This role focuses on R&D to advance analytical capabilities for characterizing nuclear materials and isotopes. You will develop cutting-edge analytical methods, collaborate with a diverse group of scientists, and contribute to impactful research that addresses critical national challenges. The laboratory fosters a supportive environment that values diverse perspectives, ensuring that your contributions will be recognized and celebrated. If you are passionate about analytical chemistry and eager to make a difference, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Medical Plans

Retirement Plans

Flexible Work Hours

Qualifications

• PhD in analytical chemistry or related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience with modern inorganic mass spectrometry and optical emission spectrometry.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative analytical methods for chemical analyses.
• Collaborate with scientists for new research ideas and publish findings.

Skills

Analytical Chemistry

Inorganic Mass Spectrometry

Optical Emission Spectrometry

Communication Skills

Collaborative Teamwork

Problem Solving

Education

PhD in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

ICP-MS

ICP-OES

Laser Ablation Systems

Job description

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

Postdoctoral Research Associate- Analytical Chemist

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will support the Chemical and Isotopic Mass Spectrometry Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will focus on R&D in analytical chemistry to develop and advance analytical capabilities and methodologies to support the characterization of nuclear materials associated with the nuclear fuels cycle, nuclear non-proliferation and safeguards, nuclear forensics, production of isotopes, and various application spaces. The research will focus on detailed trace element and isotopic characterizations via inorganic mass spectrometry and using a variety of elemental and isotopic approaches.

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.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop front-end introduction systems (e.g., laser ablation and single particle) for direct measurement by ICP-MS or ICP-OES.
• Conceive, design, and implement innovative analytical methods for chemical analyses using state of the art elemental and isotopic mass spectrometric systems.
• Publish and present research results in professional journals and at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with other group scientists and technical personnel for the development of new research ideas.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of ORNL’s research code of conduct.
• 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 analytical chemistry or a related field completed within the last 5 years.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with elemental and isotopic measurements using modern inorganic mass spectrometry and optical emission spectrometry instrumentation.
• Experience with various introduction systems including laser ablation.
• 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:

Postdocs:

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.

Letters of Recommendation:

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You can upload these directly to your application or have them sent to [e-mail] with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Physical Requirements:

Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

HSPD-12 PIV badge:

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

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.

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.