Postdoctoral Research Associate - Computational Solid Mechanics for Digital Cert/Qual

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to use multiscale modeling and simulation to develop probabilistic lifing frameworks for high-temperature alloys and extreme environment structural materials.

About the role

This position resides in the Deposition Science and Technology Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). As part of our research team, you will engage with researchers of various backgrounds (e.g., materials science, mechanical behavior of materials, heat transfer) and interact closely with industry partners. You will also be involved in proposal writing with our scientists while taking the lead in publishing high-impact papers.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the development and implementation of nonlinear constitutive models into finite element (FE) codes.
• Participate in the development and implementation of crystal plasticity constitutive models into FE codes for additively manufactured alloys.
• Participate in the development of probabilistic lifing approaches for additively manufactured materials using multiscale modeling.
• Present and report research results at workshops and conferences and publish key findings in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Collaborate within a multi-disciplinary research environment consisting of computational scientists, experimentalists, and engineers conducting basic and applied research in support of the Laboratory’s missions.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
• Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, or a field relevant to the job duties within the past 5 years.
• A strong background in mechanical behavior of materials.
• Experience in the development and implementation of constitutive models within commercial and/or open-source finite element software.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in multi-physics FE simulations.
• Demonstrated expertise in using machine learning and optimization frameworks in conjunction with FE simulations to assist with component and/or process design.
• Experience with microstructural modeling (e.g., crystal plasticity) applied to fatigue and ductile fracture.
• 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

• 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. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.
• Please submit two letters of reference when applying to this position.
• This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.
• For employment at ORNL, a Real ID-compliant form of identification will be required. All employees must also 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 illegal drug activities within the last year.
• 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 need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment.

Benefits

• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities
• Flexible work hours