Research Professional - Optical Scientist

Requisition Id 9268 

Overview: 

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. We are seeking a research professional who will support the Signals Collections and Analysis Group in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division (NND), National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The successful candidate will support existing and develop new research efforts in optical system design and sensing, machine vision, and optical signal analysis. This position will involve design and assembly of optical systems, testing of machine vision methodologies in challenging environments, and processing complex signals obtained from these systems. This researcher will be highly motivated and creative, capable of solving challenging problems in the nonproliferation mission space.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Design and construct optomechanical systems and subsystems using COTS and/or custom components
• Record and analyze optical signals utilizing machine vision and complex optical signal capture methodologies
• Characterize optical sensor performance in varying environmental conditions
• Advance neuromorphic sensing data analysis methodologies
• Prepare and provide reporting on system design and data analysis for customer review
• Conceive, write, and submit proposals to develop and expand a research program investigating novel signal analysis methods to satisfy mission objectives

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in optical engineering, astronomy, physics, computer science, or a related field, or an MS in similar fields with 3+ years’ experience
• Experience designing and constructing optomechanical systems
• Experience processing optical signals from COTS and custom systems
• Experience with scientific analysis software such as Python, R, MATLAB, Igor, or comparable equivalent
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• A demonstrated background in productive and creative research efforts

 Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with using optical design software such as Zemax or Code V
• Experience with neuromorphic optical sensing systems
• 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 complex research environment requiring adaptability to satisfy sponsor and mission requirements

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

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.