Postdoctoral Research Associate - Multifunctional Equipment Integration Energy Conversion Technology

About the role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher who will focus on conducting, coordinating, and reporting complex research assignments related to advanced thermal and energy system technologies. This position resides in the Multifunctional Equipment Integration Group in the Thermal System Science Research Section, Buildings and Transportation Science Division, Energy Science and Technology Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Responsibilities

• Conduct, coordinate, and report complex research assignments related to energy conversion systems including:
  • Prototype development
  • Material synthesis and analysis
  • Performance testing
  • Analysis of results
• Prepare research publications, technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and project deliverables for sponsors and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and engage with researchers, engineers, and stakeholders from universities, national laboratories, government agencies, and private industry.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Basic Qualifications

• A Ph.D. degree in mechanical, chemical, materials, or electrical engineering, or a related discipline obtained within the last five years.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in:
  • Design and operation of experimental thermal/fluid systems
  • Mechanical/chemical systems and instrumentation
  • Fluid dynamics, combustion, and heat transfer
  • Thermal and mechanical characterization
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proven publication record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) equipment.
• Experience with prototype development.
• Experience in developing new ideas and proposal writing.
• 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.
• Three letters of reference are required.
• Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card.
• 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 instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment.