Postdoctoral Research Associate - Organic/Polymer Chemist for Advanced Fibers

Our team is looking for a driven Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong background in polymer chemistries to support our advanced fiber manufacturing initiatives. This role involves conducting research on both scaling up and developing precursor chemistries for advanced fiber production, as well as advancing fiber technologies for composite systems. Based within the Advanced Fibers Manufacturing Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), this position provides an opportunity to work at the forefront of materials innovation.

Responsibilities

• Develop cutting-edge polymer chemistries for advanced fiber applications, including Carbon Fiber, Rayon fibers, Silicon Carbide fiber, and Silicon Nitride fiber.
• Synthesize, modify, and characterize polymers to maximize material performance.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to scale up manufacturing processes for high-performance fibers.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to drive product innovation.
• Obtain and calibrate simulation parameters based on laboratory results.
• Interface between experimental and simulation teams to integrate findings and methodologies.
• Establish and manage research collaborations and projects with industry partners.
• Present and report research results, publish scientific work in peer-reviewed journals, and share findings at scientific conferences.
• Support collective team goals and work collaboratively with colleagues.
• Maintain compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Uphold values and ethics in all research and development efforts.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science & Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, or a related discipline completed within the last five years.
• Strong background in polymer synthesis for advanced fibers, characterization, and processing.
• Expertise in polymer chemistry or processing for developing advanced fiber precursors.
• Experience in advanced manufacturing techniques.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a technical STEM field with a focus on polymers or materials science.
• Hands-on experience in polymer synthesis and advanced characterization techniques.
• Knowledge of fiber manufacturing processes and structure-property relationships.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Experience in characterization techniques such as DSC, FTIR, TGA, DMA, EDS, XRD, Rheology, SEM, and optical microscopy.
• Record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in teams.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities, and adapt to changing needs.

Special Requirements

• Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application.
• Must complete all degree requirements before starting the appointment.
• Appointment length will be up to 24 months with potential for extension, subject to performance and availability of funding.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits programs.
• 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.