R&D Associate Staff Member - Detector Scientist

Requisition Id 12829 

Overview:    

The Detector Group within the Neutron Technologies Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is looking for an R&D Associate Staff Member Detector Scientist.  The mission of this group is to develop new neutron detector technologies, deploy them at our scattering instruments, and to support the day-to-day operation of our instruments with innovative neutron detection technologies.   

The development work of the group is currently focused on two detector technologies: scintillator detectors and micro channel plate (MCP) detectors.  We are researching new neutron converters and solid-state materials that combine high efficiency for neutron capture with high brightness and/or mobility for resulting conversion particles.  Neutron sensitive MCP or semiconductor neutron detectors that might lead to lower cost, improved performance or new neutron sensitive device architectures are of particular interest.  We are also developing our own backend electronics solutions based on the Timepix technology, to integrate the detectors into the data acquisition systems at the instruments.  The practical implementation of a detector system based on this technology is one of the main areas where this position is expected to contribute. 

This position will support much needed R&D work in neutron detectors at ORNL.  In the long term, ORNL is planning to significantly expand the suites of scattering instruments at both HFIR and SNS, and new technical solutions for our detectors will be needed in terms of rate capability, efficiency for thermal neutrons, noise rejection, gamma sensitivity, spatial resolution, timing resolution, area, read-out speed, etc.  In this role you will join a diverse organization of scientists, engineers and technicians who work on detectors and their integration in the data acquisition systems of our scattering instruments. 

Major Duties/Responsibilities:   

• Perform hands-on detector design & development tasks related to new neutron detection systems meeting SNS and HFIR instruments requirements. 
• Independently plan, design, and execute detector fabrication and testing in laboratory setting, thinking beyond the immediate detector support function of the group. 
• Perform research to understand neutron convertor structure-properties and their integration in neutron detectors. 
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner. 
• Participate in the initiation of new research directions and development of research proposals. 
• Develop partnerships with key leaders in the neutron science community from industry, academia, and government to further enhance the capabilities of neutron detection at SNS. 
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements. 
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics. 
• 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. 
• 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 encouraging a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.  

Basic Qualifications: 

• PhD in physics, engineering, or a closely related field. 
• Experience developing experimental instrumentation for radiation detection fabrication and testing. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• At least 2 years of post-doctoral and hands-on experience in building a thermal neutron detector. 
• Excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals. 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate to an international, scientific audience. 
• 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. 

Benefits at ORNL:   

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking 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, and Employee Discounts.  Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions.  If invited to interview, be sure to ask your Recruiter (Talent Acquisition Partner) for details. 

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov or call 1.866.963.9545. 

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.