Postdoctoral Research Associate- Shear Strength of Ceramics

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the Ceramics and Ceramics Composites (CCC) Group within the Materials Science and Engineering Division (MSTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The role focuses on ORNL's continued development of methods to quantify shear (yield) strength of monolithic ceramic materials as a function of temperature.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hot hardness testing and postmortem analysis
• Perform spherical indentation and postmortem analysis
• Estimate critical particle size associated with the brittle-to-ductile transition
• Assist with developing additional concepts and tests to estimate shear strength
• Develop and refine finite element and numerical analysis models to portray shear strength response as a function of temperature and reconcile experimentally measured responses
• Present and report research results and publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
• Align behaviors, priorities, and interactions with ORNL’s core values: Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service
• Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace

Requirements

• PhD in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field completed within the last 5 years
• Experience in ceramics and brittle materials, experimental contact mechanics, and microstructural characterization
• Immediate eligibility to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-Clearance

Qualifications

• Experience with brittle materials, experimental contact testing (including indentation/hardness testing), contact damage mechanics and mechanisms, material microstructure and its characterization, and finite element analysis (FEA) and numerical analysis techniques
• Excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Strong 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

Special Requirements

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy clearance (Workplace Substance Abuse Program testing designated position)
• Applicants must have received their PhD no more than five years prior to the application date and must complete all degree requirements before starting the appointment
• Appointment length is up to 24 months with potential for extension, subject to performance and funding availability
• Three letters of recommendation are required (upload directly or send to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number in the subject line)

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, holidays, and 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

ORNL is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory with an 80-year legacy of addressing national challenges. Our team of over 7,000 individuals values diverse perspectives and backgrounds, supporting our mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges.