Materials Science and Engineering Postdoctoral Researcher

About the role

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate with a materials science and engineering background. The successful candidate will join INL’s Materials Performance team as part of the Materials and Manufacturing Department within INL’s Energy, Environment Science & Technology Directorate and contribute to research in the areas of materials performance and characterization, process informed science, design, engineering and assessment of materials and components that operate in nominal to harsh environments (temperature, pressure, ionic concentration, pH, as well as other functional and applications).

Ability to integrate modeling and simulations into development and assessment of materials is an essential requirement for this position. Complimentary expertise is also desired in materials and manufacturing process development of high-strength, light-weight macro to nano-crystalline metal alloys. The candidate is expected to support existing programs in materials science and engineering. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment at a premier national laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development in the areas outlined above.
• Provide project management support for projects with compressed timelines.
• Characterize and understand how to interpret data collected from materials using advanced 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 the sintering behavior and mechanisms of formation in materials.
• Collaborate with other researchers and engineers within INL and with external partners to advance the understanding and application of field assisted sintering as it pertains to materials for 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, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 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.
• Experience with hands-on experimental research.
• Proficiency in advanced data computational and analytical software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with advanced characterization tools and techniques.
• Demonstrated track record of publications in high-impact scientific journals.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment.
• Hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms.
• Operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform essential functions and interact with people.
• Ability to smell.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Pay

The pay for this position is $105,144.00 annually. Compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.