Postdoctoral Research Associate

Requisition Id 16178 

Overview:  

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support research activities within the Isotope Applications Research Group (IARG) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This position will focus on the development, characterization, and application of engineered nanoparticles for medical isotope systems, including technologies relevant to isotope processing, separations, stabilization, and advanced therapeutic or diagnostic applications. The successful candidate will contribute to multidisciplinary efforts at the interface of chemistry, nanomaterials, nuclear science, and materials engineering, with emphasis on understanding material behavior in complex chemical and radiological environments. Research activities may include the design of functional nanomaterials, investigation of radiation–matter interactions, evaluation of material performance under extreme conditions, and the development of innovative approaches to improve the efficiency, selectivity, and durability of medical isotope-related processes. Opportunities will also be available to support broader programmatic efforts in materials development, radiochemical processing, and isotope application technologies.

IARG is a multidisciplinary team dedicated to advancing the production, exploration of fundamental properties, and practical applications of radioisotopes produced at ORNL. Comprised of experts ranging from nuclear engineers and radiochemists to organic chemists and cell biologists, IARG pushes the boundaries of technology in the production, isolation, and characterization of radionuclides. Their work not only enhances our understanding of these isotopes but also explores their current and potential future applications, which include innovations in nuclear battery development, cutting-edge research in next-generation nuclear reactors, and the advancement of targeted alpha therapy in cancer treatment.

Major Duties/Rsponsibilities:

• Perform experimental studies related to the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of engineered nanoparticles for medical isotope technologies.
• Develop and evaluate nanoparticle-enabled approaches for isotope stabilization, and therapeutic or diagnostic applications.
• Investigate radiation–matter interactions and the effects of chemically and radiologically challenging environments on nanomaterial performance, stability, and durability.
• Publish scientific papers and internal reports resulting from this research and present results in appropriate technical and scientific settings.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to advance isotope science through innovative materials and process development.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Science.
• 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

Basic Qualifications:

• To be eligible you must have completed a PhD in chemistry, physics, engineering, or a related field with in the last 5 years.
• Demonstrated background in one or more of the following areas: nanomaterials, nuclear materials, radiochemistry, electrochemistry, materials chemistry, or materials behavior under extreme environments.
• Strong record of academic research productivity, including peer-reviewed publications and/or relevant technical presentations.

 Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in nanomaterials and nuclear materials research, particularly in environments relevant to medical isotope science and technology.
• Experience with radiation–matter interactions, including the impact of radiation on material properties, structure, and long-term performance.
• Experience with electrochemistry, corrosion, molten salts, or advanced materials under extreme chemical or thermal conditions.
• Experience developing or applying materials solutions to challenges in radiochemical processing, isotope separations, or nuclear systems.
• Experience with statistical design of experiments and integrated experimental/computational research approaches.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment on scientifically challenging problems.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate research results through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and presentations.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.

Special Requirements:

• Applicants cannot receive their PhD 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.
• Export control, no clearance:  This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.
  
  

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.

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

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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.