Postdoctoral Research Associate - Advanced Machining and Machine Tool Research Group

About the role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate within the Advanced Machining and Machine Tool Research Group. The successful candidate will focus on developing, evaluating, and demonstrating advanced manufacturing technologies related to machining processes, machine tool performance, process monitoring, machine tool metrology, and/or manufacturing system integration.

Responsibilities

• Support research projects in advanced machining, machine tool systems, process monitoring, machine tool metrology, manufacturing data analytics, and manufacturing process optimization.
• Develop and apply models, algorithms, or data analysis workflows to support machining process understanding, machine tool characterization, process monitoring, or manufacturing decision-making.
• Collaborate with ORNL researchers, technical staff, students, industry partners, and external collaborators to execute project tasks and deliver research outcomes.
• Prepare peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, conference presentations, and sponsor deliverables based on research results.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
• Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Qualifications

• A PhD in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, materials science and engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, controls engineering, or a related discipline completed within the past five years.
• Research experience in machining science, machine tool dynamics, machine tool error compensation and modeling, CNC system design, and/or machining process optimization.
• Hands-on experience with CNC machine tools, machine controllers, G-code, CAM software, machining process planning, fixture design, and practical manufacturing workflows.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with machine tool metrology and performance evaluation methods such as ball-bar testing, laser interferometry, volumetric accuracy assessment, spindle characterization, probing, thermal testing, or dynamic compliance testing.
• Experience integrating sensors, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation into machining or manufacturing systems.
• Experience with data analysis, modeling, or automation using tools such as Python, MATLAB, C#, C++, or similar engineering software environments.
• Experience with CAD/CAM/CAE tools such as Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Mastercam, Fusion, VERICUT, or similar platforms.
• Strong record of scholarly output, including peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, technical reports, or open-source research tools.
• 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.