Molten Salt Electrochemistry Postdoctoral Researcher

Idaho National Laboratory is seeking a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform laboratory-based research and development of electrochemical systems and processes within the Chemical Separations group in the Critical Materials and Geothermal Energy Department.

About the role

Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off. You will report to the Project Investigator and develop and optimize electrochemical systems for a variety of pyrometallurgical/molten salt applications including metallic deposition, electrochemical redox stripping, electrophoretic separations, leaching, and electrochemical processing. Knowledge and a working background in electrochemical processes in moderate and high-temperature molten salt systems in inert environments is required.

Responsibilities

• Be a strong asset to an established R&D team to achieve specific project/program targets and goals on multiple projects within the same area of study.
• Perform autonomous and collaborative work taking direction from other team members and peers.
• Write scientific manuscripts for journal publication, project reports, and proposals, as well as prepare presentations of research results and present them at national/international conferences/workshops/meetings.
• Maintain currency in relevant scientific literature.
• Meet Environment Safety and Health (ES&H) goals, demonstrate a strong commitment to safe laboratory practices, and perform all work in an environmentally safe and compliant manner.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Engineering (e.g., chemical engineering or nuclear engineering with emphasis on electrochemical studies) or Ph.D. in Physical Sciences (e.g., chemistry, materials science, or physics). PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• A developing publication record with demonstrated oral and published written communication skills (in English).
• Demonstrated experience in molten salt electrochemistry, electrodeposition of metals, from fundamental understanding of reduction/nucleation processes to electrochemical engineering and process optimization, and production of electrodeposits with desirable composition and material properties.
• Hands-on experience with inert-atmosphere gloveboxes.
• Experience with electroanalytical (CV, CA, CP, EIS) and surface characterization (XRD, SEM) techniques.

Skills

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience in either electrocatalysis, spectro-electrochemistry, or computational/theoretical analysis.
• Experience in molten salt electrolytic cell design.
• Experience with high vacuum systems.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment.
• Requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms.
• Requires operation of job-related equipment.
• Must occasionally move up to 50 pounds using carts/dollies to move equipment into place.
• Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Pay

$105,144.00 annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

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