Research & Development Associate - Probing Structure Evolution in Manufactured Biomaterials

Requisition ID: 17323

About the role

We are seeking an R&D Associate who will focus on microfabrication and mesoscale material synthesis via liquid–liquid phase separation of biomass fractions. This position resides in the Carbon and Composites Group in the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments to build phase diagram of biomass-solvent-nonsolvent fractions for facile separation of biomass fractions
• Synthesize materials with hierarchical morphology via non-equilibrium phase separation
• Conduct microfabrication and mesoscale material synthesis
• Develop fluid mechanics models for understanding fluid transport during processing
• Manufacture fibers from oligomeric biomaterials for multifunctional use
• Manufacture functionalized porous fibers for separation and enrichment applications
• Work both independently and collaboratively with co-workers, principal investigators, and other staff members to follow procedures for polymer synthesis and characterization and to develop new processing methods
• Laboratory space management and maintain hazardous chemical inventory management
• 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

• PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline with particular focus on nonequilibrium morphologies in soft materials via liquid-liquid self-assembly and associated interfacial phenomena
• Minimum of 3 years of experience post-PhD in design of functional polymeric materials via multiphase fluid processing
• Experienced in microscopic analysis of polymer morphologies
• Experienced in Python for data analysis

Qualifications

• Expertise in multiphase polymer solution processing
• Safety conscious
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and willingness to participate creatively in a collaborative team environment
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Motivated self-starter with ability to work independently and 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

• Visa sponsorship will not be available for this position
• Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge
• Real ID compliant form of identification required
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by HSPD-12 and DOE Order 473.1A, requiring a favorable post-employment background investigation
• Must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation, including declaration of illegal drug activities (including marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which remain illegal under federal law regardless of state laws) within the last year

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