Postdoctoral Research Associate - Multifunctional Equipment Integration Energy Conversion Technology

UT-Battelle; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

UT-Battelle at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to advance thermal and energy system technologies. The role focuses on conducting, coordinating, and reporting complex research, including prototype development, materials analysis, testing, and publications.

You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, prepare reports and publications, and deliver project deliverables for sponsors while upholding ORNL values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant engineering discipline within the last five years.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in experimental thermal/fluid systems design and operation; instrumentation; fluid dynamics, combustion, heat transfer; thermal and mechanical characterization.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proven publication record.

Responsibilities

• Conduct, coordinate, and report complex research on energy conversion systems including prototype development, material synthesis and analysis, performance testing, and results analysis.
• Prepare technical reports, peer‑reviewed publications, presentations, and project deliverables for sponsors.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and engage researchers, engineers, and stakeholders from universities, national laboratories, government agencies, and industry.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning actions with core values and promoting a respectful, inclusive workplace.

Skills

Excellent communication

Publications record

Education

PhD in mechanical, chemical, materials, or electrical engineering

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher who will focus on conducting, coordinating, and reporting complex research assignments related to advanced thermal and energy system technologies. This position resides in the Multifunctional Equipment Integration Group in the Thermal System Science Research Section, Buildings and Transportation Science Division, Energy Science and Technology Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting, coordinating, and reporting complex research assignments related to energy conversion systems including:
  • Prototype development
  • Material synthesis and analysis
  • Performance testing
  • Analysis of results
  • Preparing research publications
• Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and project deliverables for sponsors and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and engage with researchers, engineers, and stakeholders from universities, national laboratories, government agencies, and private industry.
• 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 Ph.D. degree in mechanical, chemical, materials, or electrical engineering, or a related discipline obtained within the last five years.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in (a) design and operation of experimental thermal/fluid systems, (b) mechanical/chemical systems and instrumentation, (c) fluid dynamics, combustion, and heat transfer, and (d) thermal and mechanical characterization.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proven publication record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) equipment.
• Experience with prototype development.
• Experience in developing new ideas and proposal writing.
• 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.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements: 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.

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.