Postdoctoral Research Associate- Electrochemical Spectroscopist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Chemical Dynamics Group invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate focused on in situ interfacial characterization of silicon-based materials and mapping their electrochemical performance.

You will work with Raman, IR, XPS, impedance spectroscopy and scattering methods, training junior scientists and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals. Collaboration with ORNL teams and sponsors is required to advance energy storage science.

Qualifications

• PhD completed within the last five years.
• Experience with interface battery chemistry and XPS.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Electrochemical analysis of anode corrosion.
• Design and evaluate cells for in situ and time-resolved studies.
• Synthesis of composite electrodes.
• Perform characterization studies of battery materials.
• Coordinate research with team members inside and outside ORNL.
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results.

Skills

Electrochemistry

Interfacial spectroscopy

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science or related field

Tools

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy

Impedance Spectroscopy

Raman Spectroscopy

Electron Microscopy

FTIR Spectroscopy

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate- Electrochemical Spectroscopist

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher focused on the development of in situ interfacial characterization techniques for silicon-based materials and to map their electrochemical performance with chemical change.This position resides in the Chemical Dynamics Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (X060), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) but will involve close (daily) collaborations with scientists/team members across the laboratory, specifically the Energy Storage and Conversion Group. Potential candidates are expected to contribute to the development unique science directions, in collaboration with the Team and sponsoring organizations. Furthermore, the position requires collaborating and interacting with staff at ORNL’s Spallation Neutron Source and Battery Manufacturing Facility.This position will support the laboratories mission of world leading interfacial spectroscopy as a key part of energy storage science and delivering solutions to pressing energy storage problems essential to economic develop and security of the United States.

As part of our research team, the candidate will be expected to work across a variety of projects related to electrochemical analysis, surface specific spectroscopy, and battery materials for vehicle and aircrafts.Applicants are expected to perform experiments to direct and control interfacial reactions within energy storage materials. In addition, the applicant will be expected to help train new scientists (graduate students, post-BS, and post-docs) with suitable laboratory procedures and aspects related to safety and best practices.The candidate will make extensive use of state-of-the-art imaging, spectroscopy (Raman, electron microscopy, infrared, etc.) and scattering methods (both X-ray and neutrons). Other characterization studies will be implemented as appropriate for the materials including photoelectron spectroscopy and impedance spectroscopy.Applicants will be expected to compose or participate in the composition of reports and peer reviewed publications.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Electrochemical analysis of anode corrosion.
• Design and evaluate special cells required for in situ and time-resolved studies.
• Synthesis of composite electrodes.
• Perform characterization studies of battery materials.
• Coordinate research with other team members inside and outside ORNL.
• Work with sponsors to achieve project goals and deliverables.
• Present and report research results and 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:

• A PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science or a related field completed within the last 5 years.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with interface battery chemistry, specifically x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
• Electrochemistry background, specifically time-resolved impedance.
• Candidates must show proficiency in developing techniques and data.
• An excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals, patents or commercial products.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience.
• Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver license within 10 days of arriving to operate DOE vehicles on-site.
• Motivated with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative and frequently interacting teams of researchers.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
• 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.

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.

Letters of Recommendation:

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.