Postdoctoral Research Associate - Kinetic Structural Study of Photosynthetic Membranes

Requisition Id 14091 

Overview:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform cutting-edge research in the study of photosynthetic membrane structure in vivo using neutron scattering.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security.  The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) and the High-Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) are world-leading facilities and the scientific center of a diverse, international, and inclusive neutron scattering communi (https://neutrons.ornl.gov).

The position resides in the SANS and Spin Echo Group, part of the Large Scale Structures Section of the Neutron Scattering Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

In this position you will: (1) Perform time resolved small-angle neutron scattering experiments to study the structure of plant thylakoid membranes in vivo. (2) Contribute to the development of a sample environment for the in-situ illumination of photosynthetic systems. (3) Refine and/or develop methods and models for analyzing data from these challenging systems (4) Combine the obtained information with information obtained from complementary techniques to understand how the structures observed relate to physiological processes in photosynthetic organisms. 

This work will be conducted in collaboration with other scientists within the Neutron Scattering Division, and provides opportunities to work with collaborators in the stimulating multidisciplinary environment of ORNL. The prospective candidate will also have the opportunity to develop their own science related to the structural study of complex membrane systems.

Successful candidates will be selected via a panel interview process.  If this position interests you and you meet the basic qualifications, please apply.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct high quality kinetic structural research on photosynthetic organisms.
• Contribute to the design, construction, and commissioning of the sample environment dedicated to the neutron scattering study of photosynthetic systems.
• Reduce, analyze, and interpret the data obtained, with special attention to the underlying scattering model.
• Perform small angle neutron and X-ray scattering from biological materials.
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Present results from this research at national and international meetings.
• Champion neutron scattering within the ORNL community and among national and international peers.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in biophysics, physics, materials science, structural biology, chemistry, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A strong background in biological membrane characterization with an emphasis on scattering techniques.
• Experience with neutron or X-ray scattering techniques, preferably small-angle scattering.
• A strong background in the interpretation of small-angle scattering data and formulation of membrane models.
• Experience with preparation and handling of biological samples for scattering experiments.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• A strong record of research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory .
• Ability to work within a multi-disciplinary team environment on scientifically challenging problems.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate research results in peer-reviewed publications.

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.

Please submit two letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

• Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
• View Profile
• Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

This position requires that you successfully complete required training, including radiological training.

As a member of the ORNL scientific community, you will be expected to commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct. Our full code of conduct and a statement by the Lab Director's office can be found here: https://www.ornl.gov/content/research-integrity.

Benefits at ORNL:

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for 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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov

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.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

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.