Ceramic Materials Postdoctoral Research Associate

About the role

Idaho National Laboratory’s Materials Properties and Performance group is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with Materials Science/Ceramics experience to lead the design, synthesis, advanced microstructure characterization, and properties evaluation of high temperature non-oxide ceramics materials. The selected candidate will have the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the material chemistry-process-microstructure-property-performance paradigm; to utilize advanced testing methodologies to assess material performance; to examine new structural/functional materials designed for advanced reactors and other high temperature harsh environments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hands-on research and development in ceramic materials processing, advanced microstructure characterization, and properties evaluation.
• Project management support for projects with compressed timelines.
• Characterize and interpret data from advanced materials characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and mechanical testing.
• Analyze experimental data and develop models to understand sintering behavior and mechanisms of formation in materials.
• Understand mechanical properties such as tensile, creep, fatigue, and Charpy-V notch toughness.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers within INL and with external partners to advance the understanding and application of field assisted sintering for materials in harsh environments.
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposals and project reports.

Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Materials Science, or a related and relevant discipline.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years of graduation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.
• Knowledge of ceramic materials, ceramic processing, sintering, and complex phase diagrams.
• Understanding of materials performance issues for materials under extreme environments.
• Prior publications in high impact journals with microstructure characterization.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong asset to interdisciplinary R&D teams with demonstrated ability to work effectively independently and as a team member.
• Self-motivated with fluency in English and excellent oral and written communication skills.

Qualifications

• Background/experience in ceramic processing, phase transformation, microstructural characterization, mechanical properties, and thermodynamic calculations.

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

Pay

$105,144.00 Annually

Schedule

9x80 schedule located out of Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.