Postdoc -Microstructure Characterization and Mechanical Behavior of Advanced Structural Alloy

Overview

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct advanced research on the mechanical behavior and microstructure evolution of advanced structural alloys. This position resides in the Multiscale Modeling and Materials by Design (M2MD) Group within the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The selected candidate will work in a highly collaborative environment, leveraging state-of-the-art neutron and X-ray characterization facilities 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.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct research on deformation mechanisms and mechanical behavior of advanced structural alloys.
• Perform detailed microstructural characterization using SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD, and related techniques.
• Conduct in situ neutron or X-ray diffraction experiments to study micromechanical behavior under loading conditions (e.g., tension, compression, creep).
• Design and execute mechanical testing experiments including tensile, fatigue, creep, impact, and nanoindentation testing.
• 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.

Basic Qualifications

• A PhD in Materials Science & Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• A minimum of 2 years of post-Ph.D. 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.

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.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements

For employment at ORNL, a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. All employees must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation including a declaration of no illegal drug activities within the last year (marijuana and cannabis derivatives included, regardless of state laws). For foreign national candidates who have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination is required instead of a PIV credential, and a PIV credential will be required once the residency requirement is met.

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 for up to 24 months with potential extension, subject to performance and funding availability.

Please submit three letters of reference when applying, either uploaded directly to your application or sent to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

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