Postdoctoral Researcher: Geothermal Composite Pipes

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance composite pipe technologies for geothermal and harsh-environment applications. The role involves designing, fabricating, and testing composites from lab scale toward commercial scale, with travel to vendor sites as needed.

You will collaborate with researchers in materials science, chemistry, data science, and robotics, and contribute to proposal writing and high-impact publications while upholding ORNL’s

Qualifications

• A PhD in material science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, polymer chemistry, electrical engineering, robotics, or related field completed within the last five years.
• Background in composite material preparation, particularly in fiber reinforced (Glass fiber, silicon carbide fiber, etc.) composites.
• Hands-on experience with lab scale polymer synthesis and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop composite pipe technologies for geothermal energy or similar harsh environment applications.
• Design, fabricate, and test composite material in lab scale and help scale up to commercial scale.
• Perform development work at vendor sites that requires travel.
• Interact with industrial partners, other research organizations, and universities related to advanced manufacturing technologies and materials development.
• Present and report research results and publish 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 with core values and promoting equal opportunity in the workplace.

Skills

Fiber reinforced composites

Polymer synthesis

Data analysis

Education

PhD in materials science or related field

Tools

FEA

Python

Digital twin concepts

Job description

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance composite pipe technologies for geothermal and harsh-environment applications. The role involves designing, fabricating, and testing composites from lab scale toward commercial scale, with travel to vendor sites as needed.

You will collaborate with researchers in materials science, chemistry, data science, and robotics, and contribute to proposal writing and high-impact publications while upholding ORNL’s