Biomass Electroconversion Postdoctoral Researcher

Idaho National Laboratory is seeking a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a comparable discipline for the Energy & Environment Science & Technology Directorate. This position focuses on the electrochemical conversion of bio-derived organics, including reactor design and catalyst development.

About the role

This postdoctoral role involves developing electrolyzer technology that operates on bio-derived hydrocarbons. Key reactions include oxidation and reduction, Kolbe coupling, and electrochemical hydrogenation. The work emphasizes electrolysis using minimally purified fermentation broths and other complex bio-derived feedstocks, incorporating electrode and catalyst design to maximize selectivity, conversion, and durability. Cross-collaboration within the directorate, with other federal labs, and participation in characterization experiments at DOE synchrotron radiation facilities is anticipated. The position includes writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication and presenting research results at national and international conferences.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrolyzer technology for bio-derived hydrocarbons.
• Focus on electrochemical conversion, including oxidation, reduction, Kolbe coupling, and electrochemical hydrogenation.
• Optimize electrolysis for minimally purified fermentation broths and complex bio-derived feedstocks.
• Design electrodes and catalysts to enhance selectivity, conversion, and durability.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and federal labs.
• Participate in characterization experiments at DOE synchrotron radiation facilities.
• Publish scientific manuscripts and present research at conferences.

Requirements

• PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a closely related field. PhD must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Research experience in electrocatalysis and/or electrolyzer development.
• Experience designing, conducting, and interpreting laboratory experiments.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to a multidisciplinary, multi-institutional team.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills in English.
• US Citizenship required.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience in electrochemical conversion of organic molecules, including anodic and cathodic chemistries.
• Experience designing and operating flow cells and similar continuous electrochemical systems.
• Experience in catalyst design and synthesis.
• Experience with catalyst characterization methods, including XRD and electron microscopy.
• Experience with synchrotron diffraction and spectroscopy methods, including analysis and modeling packages.
• Experience performing electrocatalysis with complex feedstocks.
• Experience with analytical methods such as HPLC, GC-MS, and NMR.
• A strong track record of publishing manuscripts, presenting at international conferences, preparing technical reports, and writing proposals.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, stooping, kneeling, and bending in office and laboratory environments.
• Hand/finger dexterity for keyboarding, handling materials, manipulating tools, and reaching.
• Operation of job-related equipment.
• Occasional movement of up to 50 pounds using carts or dollies.
• Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform essential functions and interact with people.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Pay

$105,144.00 annually. Compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Schedule

9x80 schedule located at the Idaho Falls facility, with every other Friday off.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions).
• Paid time off (personal leave).
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions).
• Comprehensive Relocation Package.

Benefit eligibility is subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.