Postdoctoral Research Associate - Industrial Onsite Energy

About the role

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Research & Analysis (MEERA) Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD). The role focuses on renewable energy and the implementation of such technologies on-site, along with their associated supportive technologies (such as solar photovoltaics, solar thermal systems, wind power, renewable fuels, geothermal solutions, battery storage, thermal storage, and industrial heat pumps). The position also involves research and analysis of technologies and practices for increasing the energy efficiency of industrial sectors. The primary objective is to deliver direct technical assistance support for industrial sites and other large energy users installing electricity and thermal energy generation and storage technologies at their facilities. The MEERA Group actively contributes to the efforts of the Department of Energy’s Industrial Technologies Office (ITO) in providing technical assistance, helping American industrial and other large energy users lower costs, install onsite energy technologies, and increase resilience, security, and energy independence.

Responsibilities

• Support technical assistance activities, including research and analysis of technologies and methodologies for onsite energy systems.
• Conduct in-depth market analyses to identify opportunities for onsite energy technologies in the industrial sector.
• Compose technical reports, create presentations, and publish peer-reviewed papers.
• Support the development of new resources, training, and tools to assist companies participating in the DOE’s Better Plants program.
• 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.
• Travel for key meetings, conferences, and workshops as needed.

Requirements

• A PhD in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field completed within the last five years.
• Quantitative and analytical research background applicable to advanced manufacturing technologies and systems that achieve transformative gains in process productivity and enhance manufacturing sustainability.
• Strong analytical capabilities with experience in life cycle energy and cost assessments for manufacturing technology evaluations.
• Applicants cannot have received their PhD more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment.
• Initial appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension, subject to performance and availability of funding.
• Submit three letters of reference when applying to this position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Educational background in sustainable manufacturing technologies with an emphasis on circular economy research.
• Understanding of renewable and onsite energy technologies, including experience with industry and/or buildings, specifically in the implementation of renewable energy and energy efficiency management and projects.
• Excellent quantitative and analytical background applicable to on-site energy technologies.
• Proficiency in using Excel, Python, R, or similar tools for engineering data analysis.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing needs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan and Contributory Pension Plan.
• Life Insurance and Disability Benefits.
• Generous vacation and holidays, including parental leave.
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection.
• Employee Assistance Plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts.
• Wellness Programs and Educational Assistance.
• Relocation Assistance and Employee Discounts.
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities.
• Flexible work hours to support work-life balance.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.