Postdoctoral Research Associate- Fusion Materials & Technology

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plans

Retirement plans

Flexible work hours

On-site amenities

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a postdoctoral researcher to develop separation methods using mass spectrometry, microfluidics and MEMS for hydrogen isotope separation from contaminants. The role includes analyzing irradiated ceramics and alloys for tritium technology using ToF‑SIMS, SEM, XRD, and related techniques.

The project covers data reduction of large MS and imaging datasets, vacuum instrumentation, and collaboration with ORNL teams. A strong publication record is expected.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field completed within the last five years.
• Hands-on experience with advanced materials characterization equipment and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate neutron irradiation effects on mechanical and thermophysical properties of ceramics and alloys.
• Characterize irradiated materials using TEM, SEM, SIMS, APT and related methods.
• Set up vacuum pumps, flow meters and microfluidic reactors for gas mixture MS studies.
• Operate ToF‑SIMS, SEM, Raman and other analytical instruments with hands‑on expertise.
• Analyze MS and microscopy data, coordinating experiments with simulations.
• Disseminate results via peer‑reviewed publications, reports, and collaborations.

Skills

Mass spectrometry

ToF-SIMS

SEM

XRD

MEMS fabrication

Vacuum technology

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or Chemistry

Tools

AP T

TEM

Raman spectrometers

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher who will focus on the development and application of separation techniques and fusion materials performance assessment that have applications in multiple sectors of importance in the Department of Energy. The primary focus will be developing separation methods using mass spectrometry including microfluidics, MEMS, and mass spectrometry to study gaseous mixtures and apply such techniques in separation of hydrogen isotopes from contaminants.

The postdoctoral researcher will also investigate the mechanical and thermophysical behavior of irradiated ceramics and alloys for tritium technology development using advanced experimental and computational methods. The researcher will perform characterization of model systems using techniques such as time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Experience in data reduction of big spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and image data are required. Understanding and hands‑on experiences in vacuum instruments are expected. Skills and hands‑on experience in nano- and micro-fabrication of MEMS and microfluidics are desirable. Hands‑on experience in catalytic reactor design and performing experiments with data reduction are needed. Experience in handling different types of hydrogen isotopic samples and irradiated samples are also desirable. Preparation of composite, ceramic, and alloy samples for testing and performance assessment will be a routine function. Rad Worker training will be offered for working with irradiated materials.

This position resides in the Advanced Nuclear Materials (ANM) Group in the Materials in Extremes Section, Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). As part of our team, you will study complex materials, form engineering solutions, and develop new techniques to study engineered systems and develop techniques to address physical challenges in building a sustainable energy future for the nation.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Perform experimental research to evaluate the effects of neutron irradiation on the mechanical and thermophysical properties of nuclear ceramics, composites, and related fusion materials.
• Conduct detailed microstructural and defect characterization of irradiated materials using advanced techniques such as transmission and scanning electron microscopy, SIMS, APT, and related methods.
• Set up and perform experiments involving vacuum pumps, flow meters, and microfluidic reactors to conduct experiments to study model gas mixtures containing hydrogen isotopes using mass spectrometry.
• Understand fundamental separation principles and have hands‑on experience in operating advanced analytical instruments such as ToF‑SIMS, SEM, or Raman.
• Perform data analysis of mass spectrometry (i.e., GC‑MS, LC‑MS, SIMS) and microscopy data sets and coordinate between experimental studies and theoretical simulations.
• Communicate research results through timely peer‑reviewed publications, technical reports, conference presentations, and collaboration with internal ORNL teams and external partners, including contributions to proposals and project development.
• 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 Chemical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemistry (i.e., Analytical, Physical), or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Demonstrated skills and hands‑on experiences with advanced materials characterization equipment and/or data analysis tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with multiple advanced materials characterization techniques, including mechanical testing, high‑resolution microscopy, and in‑situ spectroscopy and mass spectrometry methods.
• A minimum of 1 year of experience in microfluidics and/or MEMS fabrication.
• A minimum of 1 year of experience in ToF‑SIMS or other MS techniques.
• Experience with processing and evaluations of large MS and microscopy data sets.
• Experience with operation of ToF‑SIMS, APT, SEM, TEM, and XRD instrument.
• Strong background in mass spectrometry, vacuum technology, and hands‑on laboratory experiences.
• Strong background in modern techniques in separation, including sample preparation, handling, instrument operation, and maintenance.
• An excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within interdisciplinary, collaborative research teams, including mentoring students, managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment, and adapting to evolving research and programmatic needs.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• 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.

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.

• 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
• 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.