Postdoc - Mechanical Behavior of Advanced Structural Alloys by Engineering Diffraction

About the role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct research on the Mechanical Behavior of Advanced Structural Alloys by Engineering Diffraction. This position resides in the Materials Engineering Group within the Large Scale Structure Section, Neutron Scattering Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The selected candidate will work in a highly collaborative environment including teams in the Neutron Sciences Directorate and Physical Sciences Directorate, leveraging state-of-the-art neutron characterization and other tools to develop a mechanistic understanding of deformation, strengthening, and failure in advanced alloys. The research will focus on integrating microstructure characterization, in situ diffraction techniques, and mechanical testing to uncover processing–microstructure–property relationships. The candidate will have opportunities to interact with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to high-impact publications and collaborative projects.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on deformation mechanisms and mechanical behavior of advanced structural alloys.
• Perform in situ neutron diffraction experiments to study micromechanical behavior under loading conditions (e.g., tension, compression, creep).
• Perform detailed microstructural characterization using SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD, and related techniques.
• Analyze lattice strain evolution, phase stress, and defect evolution using advanced data analysis tools.
• Perform alloy fabrication and processing (e.g., arc melting, heat treatment) and relate processing to performance.
• Apply analytical and modeling approaches to interpret experimental results.
• Collaborate with internal and external research teams to define and advance research directions.
• Present research findings and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Align behaviors, priorities, and interactions with ORNL’s core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
• Promote a respectful workplace by fostering equal opportunity in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Requirements

• A PhD in materials science & engineering, physics, chemistry, or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience utilizing computational thermodynamic (CALPHAD) software, such as Thermo-Calc, DICTRA, PANDAT, or FactSage.
• Proficiency in materials data analytics, including correlation analysis and machine learning techniques.

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension, subject to performance and availability of funding.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with microstructure characterization techniques (SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD).
• Experience in mechanical testing (tension, compression, fatigue, creep, nanoindentation) and in situ neutron or synchrotron diffraction techniques.
• Background in advanced structural alloys, including high-entropy alloys or precipitation-strengthened systems.
• Familiarity with diffraction and data analysis tools (e.g., GSAS, GSAS-II, VDRIVE).
• Experience in alloy fabrication and processing (e.g., arc melting, thermomechanical processing, additive manufacturing).
• Knowledge of deformation mechanisms such as dislocation slip, twinning, and precipitation strengthening.

Security and Credentialing

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge. A Real ID-compliant form of identification will be required. All employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation, which includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year (marijuana and cannabis derivatives are included, regardless of state laws).

For foreign national candidates: If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and will instead need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once the three-year residency requirement is met, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits programs.
• 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.
• Employee Assistance Plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts.
• Wellness Programs and Educational Assistance.
• Employee discounts.
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities.
• Relocation Assistance for certain positions.