Associate Research Scientist - Radiation Effects in Ceramics

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) invites applications for a Research Associate position to advance research and development in radiation effects in ceramics. The successful candidate will work within the Radiation Effects and Microstructural Analysis Group (REMAG) in the Materials in Extreme Environments Section of the Materials Science and Technology Division, Physical Sciences Directorate at ORNL. This role partners with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fusion Energy Sciences (FES), Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), and Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES), as well as industry and external stakeholders, to drive innovation in next-generation energy research initiatives.

About the role

Targeted at an early-career researcher, this position offers an opportunity to develop into an R&D leader while advancing the DOE mission of clean energy innovation, energy security, and scientific excellence. The role bridges fundamental and applied materials research, enabling transformative advances in fusion and fission energy systems through foundational studies of radiation effects in ceramics and related materials.

Responsibilities

• Perform thermophysical measurements and microstructural characterizations on ceramic and composite materials subjected to neutron irradiation in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR).
• Coordinate radioactive material testing workflows in collaboration with technical staff across specialized facilities, including the Low Activation Materials Development and Analysis (LAMDA) laboratory and the Irradiated Materials Examination and Testing (IMET) facility.
• Establish and uphold laboratory safety procedures for handling and testing radioactive samples in direct coordination with Radiological Control Technicians (RCTs).
• Support the development of innovative research projects by contributing to experimental design, material testing, advanced data analysis, and scientific documentation.
• Publish scientific findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, technical reports, and present results at relevant technical conferences.
• Align behaviors, priorities, and interactions with ORNL’s core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Nuclear Engineering (Materials focus), or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of one year of post-doctoral or post-Ph.D. research experience in fission and fusion materials, supported by a strong foundation in physical and fundamental materials science.
• Demonstrated scientific productivity with a strong track record of lead-author publications in peer-reviewed journals within the past three years.

Qualifications

• Background in materials science, with knowledge of high-temperature ceramics and radiation effects on materials.
• Experience in handling and testing radioactive specimens in a radiation laboratory or hot-cell facility.
• Knowledge of the post-irradiation behavior of reactor structural or nuclear fuel materials, or experience analyzing materials behavior under irradiation conditions.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and participate creatively in collaborative teams.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to changing needs.

Special Requirements

• A Real ID-compliant form of identification is required for employment at ORNL.
• All employees must obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card, requiring a favorable post-employment background investigation, including a declaration of illegal drug activities (including marijuana/cannabis derivatives) within the last year.
• Foreign national candidates who have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years are not eligible for a PIV credential and must obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. After meeting the three-year residency requirement, a PIV credential will be required.
• Three letters of recommendation are required for this position.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan and Contributory Pension Plan.
• Life insurance and disability benefits.
• Generous vacation, holidays, and parental leave.
• Legal insurance with identity theft protection and Employee Assistance Plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts.
• Wellness programs and educational assistance.
• Relocation assistance and employee discounts.
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities.
• Flexible work hours to support work-life balance.

About ORNL

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team of over 7,000 individuals fosters an environment where diverse perspectives and backgrounds are valued, supporting our mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges.