Research & Development Associate - Probing Structure Evolution in Manufactured Biomaterials

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in Oak Ridge, TN seeks a Research & Development Associate to advance microfabrication and mesoscale polymer synthesis via liquid–liquid phase separation of biomass fractions. The role sits in the Carbon and Composites Group, within the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division.

The candidate will design experiments, synthesize materials with hierarchical morphologies, and collaborate to develop new processing methods while ensuring

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline with focus on nonequilibrium morphologies in soft materials via liquid-liquid self-assembly and interfacial phenomena.
• Minimum of 3 years of post-PhD experience in design of functional polymeric materials via multiphase fluid processing.
• Experienced in microscopic analysis of polymer morphologies.
• Experienced in Python for data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments to build phase diagram of biomass-solvent-nonsolvent fractions for facile separation of biomass fractions.
• Synthesize materials with hierarchical morphology via non-equilibrium phase separation.
• Conduct microfabrication and mesoscale material synthesis.
• Manufacture fibers from oligomeric biomaterials for multifunctional use.
• Manufacture functionalized porous fibers for separation and enrichment applications.
• Collaborate with co-workers, principal investigators, and other staff to follow procedures for polymer synthesis and characterization and to develop new processing methods.
• Laboratory space management and maintain hazardous chemical inventory management.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service; promote equal opportunity.

Skills

Microscopy analysis of polymer morph

Python for data analysis

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Materials Science

Job description

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Research & Development Associate - Probing Structure Evolution in Manufactured Biomaterials

We are seeking an R&D Associate who will focus on microfabrication and mesoscale material synthesis via liquid–liquid phase separation of biomass fractions. This position resides in the Carbon and Composites Group in the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct experiments to build phase diagram of biomass-solvent-nonsolvent fractions for facile separation of biomass fractions
• Synthesize materials with hierarchical morphology via non-equilibrium phase separation
• Conduct microfabrication and mesoscale material synthesis
• Manufacture fibers from oligomeric biomaterials for multifunctional use
• Manufacture functionalized porous fibers for separation and enrichment applications
• Work both independently and collaboratively with co-workers, principal investigators, and other staff members to follow procedures for polymer synthesis and characterization and to develop new processing methods.
• Laboratory space management and maintain hazardous chemical inventory management.
• 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 degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline with particular focus on nonequilibrium morphologies in soft materials via liquid-liquid self-assembly and associated interfacial phenomena
• A minimum of 3 years of experience post PhD in design of functional polymeric materials via multiphase fluid processing
• Experienced in microscopic analysis of polymer morphologies
• Experienced in Python for data analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in multiphase polymer solution processing
• Safety conscious
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and a willingness to participate creatively in a collaborative team environment
• 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:

• Visa sponsorship will not be available for this position.
• 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.

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.

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.

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.