Senior Isotope Chemist - Recovery & Purification Lead

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a Senior Stable Isotope Chemist to lead chemical operations for post-enrichment recovery and conversion of isotopes. You will perform complex purification steps and mentor junior staff to optimize yields while minimizing losses.

The role supports national security, basic research, radiopharmaceutical applications, and technology transfer, within a safety-conscious, team-driven environment at ORNL.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Chemistry or closely related technical discipline with at least 25 years of experience.
• Experience with handling isotopically enriched materials.
• Extensive knowledge in chemical purification techniques.
• Extensive knowledge in inorganic chemistry laboratory work.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Responsibilities

• Perform recovery, purification, chemical conversion, and characterization of isotopic material from enrichment devices, at near zero loss
• Responsible for executing intricate chemical conversion processes to achieve maximum yield of exceptionally pure product
• Train and mentor junior staff on chemical processes and provide guidance on historical processes, prior trials, and lessons learned.
• Support the development of reports, presentations, and operator aids or guidelines on technical services, conversion activities, and the processing of enriched isotopic material.

Skills

Isotopically enriched materials

Chemical purification techniques

Inorganic chemistry lab work

Fast-paced research environment

Prioritization and deadline management

Adaptability

Education

BS degree in Chemistry or closely related technical discipline

Job description

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a Senior Stable Isotope Chemist to lead chemical operations for post-enrichment recovery and conversion of isotopes. You will perform complex purification steps and mentor junior staff to optimize yields while minimizing losses.

The role supports national security, basic research, radiopharmaceutical applications, and technology transfer, within a safety-conscious, team-driven environment at ORNL.