Postdoctoral Research Associate - Mechanical Behavior of Irradiated Alloys

Requisition Id 13324 

Overview: 

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform research on the impact of irradiation damage on the high-temperature mechanical deformation of metal alloys relevant to current and advanced nuclear reactor technologies. Applicants are required to have an understanding of the fundamentals of physical metallurgy, diffusional processes, and deformation mechanisms. This position will also involve supporting the development of new mechanical testing capabilities for current and advanced nuclear reactor materials. Strong materials characterization skills are essential. Additionally, critical thinking and a willingness to investigate challenging problems are expected from candidates.

This position is located within the Radiation Effects and Microstructural Analysis Group (REMAG) of the Materials Science and Technology Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). With a distinguished history spanning several decades, REMAG is recognized as a leading research group in Radiation Effects in Materials Science. This newly available position offers an opportunity for the incumbent to deepen their understanding of multiscale mechanical phenomena in conventional and advanced radiation-resistant structural and functional materials for nuclear energy systems. Access to ORNL's unique facilities, such as the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR), Low Activation Materials Development and Analysis (LAMDA) Laboratory, and Irradiated Materials Examination and Testing (IMET) Facility, will enable the incumbent to expand their scientific capabilities. The selected individual will primarily conduct research on irradiated materials at the IMET and LAMDA facilities.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Perform experimental research on the effects of neutron irradiation on the mechanical properties of metal alloys.
• Conduct detailed microstructural examinations of neutron-irradiated materials using scanning and transmission electron microscopy.
• Analyze experimental data to investigate mechanisms of irradiation-induced damage.
• Present and report research results, and publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals promptly.
• Demonstrate ability to thrive in a fast-paced research environment, prioritize tasks to meet deadlines, and adapt to evolving needs.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Participate in the development of new ideas and projects.
• Maintain a strong commitment to upholding values and ethics in research and professional conduct.

Basic Qualifications:

• Ph.D in Materials Science and Engineering, Nuclear Engineering (Materials), or a closely related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in experimental research on behavior of materials.
• Record of at least one publication of scientific article in peer-reviewed journals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong background in radiation effects in materials
• Knowledge of neutron and  high-energy x-ray scattering techniques for materials examination
• Experiences with post-irradiation examinations of radioactive materials
• Experiences with specimen preparation and operation for transmission electron microscopy
• Experiences with mechanical testing of alloys
• Flexibility to adapt evolving research scope and programmatic needs
• 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

Applicants must have received their Ph.D. no more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment will be for up to 24 months initially, with the potential for extension. The initial appointment and any extensions are subject to the performance of the incumbent and the availability of funding.

Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of reference are required and can be uploaded to your profile or emailed directly to Postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov.  Please include the title of the position in the subject line.

Physical Requirements: Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.

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.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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.