Solid Oxide Electrochemical Cells Postdoctoral Research Associate

Battelle Energy Alliance; Idaho Falls (ID); On-site; USD 95,000 - 116,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package

401(k) with employer contribution

Paid time off

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Idaho National Laboratory is seeking one or more postdoctoral researchers in the hydrogen and electrochemistry department to perform laboratory experiments for solid oxide cells at elevated temperatures. You will work in a collaborative team at the Idaho Falls facility on a 9x80 schedule with every other Friday off.

The role requires PhD-level expertise in chemical engineering, materials science and related fields, with strong communication skills in English.

Qualifications

• PhD completed by start of appointment within the last 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on lab experiments and data interpretation for solid oxide cells at elevated temperatures.
• Prepare and present results to internal and external audiences; contribute to reports and peer-reviewed articles.
• Maintain a safe, well-documented laboratory environment and mentor team members.

Skills

Oxygen conductor R&D

Electrochemical design

Electrocatalysis

Ceramic fabrication

Cell testing

Education

PhD in chemical engineering

PhD in materials science and engineering

PhD in electrochemistry

Tools

Impedance spectroscopy

GC/MS

Job description

Idaho National Laboratory is seeking one or more postdoctoral researchers in the hydrogen and electrochemistry department to perform laboratory experiments for solid oxide cells at elevated temperatures. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

The position requires knowledge and experience in at least one of the following areas:

1. Ceramic oxygen conductor R&D with preference on fundamental understanding of solid-state physics or defect chemistry as well as the electrochemical characterizations on materials properties.
2. Electrochemical system and test facility development include P&ID design, HAZOP/safety analysis, drafting controls and alarms documents, work control documentation development.
3. Electrocatalysis (high temperature system with heterogeneous catalysis skills, the expertise in CO2 hydrogenation and/or N2 reduction are preferred).
4. Ceramic cell fabrication, and manufacturing (expertise with the conventional ceramic engineering, additive manufacturing, spray coating, 3D printing and extrusion is a plus).
5. Electrochemical cell/stack testing and characterization testing. Ideally fuel cell, electrolysis, co-electrolysis.

The position requires expertise in laboratory techniques such as Impedance Spectroscopy, GC/MS, temperature programmed experiments, etc. for in-line measurements, and other common characterization methods. The expectation for the successful candidate is that the person will be highly motivated and a self-starter, but also be capable of working well and efficiently in a highly team-oriented environment. The candidate will be required to communicate effectively with team members, mentor, and INL management.

Activities that the candidate will undertake include: hands-on laboratory collection and interpretation of data, document preparation (reports, peer-review journal articles, etc.), preparation and presentation of results and interpretations to internal and external communities, and, when appropriate, propose new research concepts and work with team members to write and submit proposals for new work. The candidate also will be required to remain current with the literature in their technical area. Additionally, the candidate will read, review, and comment on safety documentation and will maintain an orderly workspace in accordance with pertinent laboratory best practices and procedures.

Required:

• PhD requirements in chemical engineering, material science and engineering, mechanical engineering, electrochemistry, chemistry, or related disciplines must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills (in English).

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information:

• The pay for this position is $105,144.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at [e-mail] to request accommodation.

INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.