Postdoctoral Research Associate- Physical Metallurgist

Postdoctoral Research Associate- Physical Metallurgist We are seeking a Physical Metallurgist who will focus on processing structure property relationships in structural materials. Responsibilities Understand phase transformation and physical metallurgy of various ferrous and non-ferrous alloys. Metallography and characterization of parts and components manufactured via additive and conventional manufacturing techniques. Collaborate within a multi‑disciplinary research environment consisting of computational scientists, experimentalists, and engineers conducting basic and applied research in support of the Laboratory’s missions. Support senior staff in the development and execution of projects that provide valued and timely deliverables to various stakeholders. Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements per ORNL’s Standards‑Based Management System (SBMS). Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of institution values and ethics. Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service and promoting equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace. Basic Qualifications PhD in materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering or a related field completed within the last 5 years. Preferred Qualifications Background and expertise in physical metallurgy, phase transformation, and characterization of Fe, Ni, and Ti based alloys. Hands‑on experience and expertise in advanced characterization methods such as scanning electron microscopy with focused ion beam (SEM‑FIB), transmission Kikuchi diffraction (TKD), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM/TEM), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), atom probe tomography (APT), and X‑ray diffraction (XRD). Excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer‑reviewed journals. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Motivated self‑starter with the 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, accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever‑changing needs. Special Requirements Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements: For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification is required. All employees must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card. New employees must successfully complete a Federal Tier 1 background check that includes a declaration of illegal drug activities and a favorable post‑employment background investigation. For foreign national candidates who have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, eligibility for the PIV credential is limited; a Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination is required until residency is met. Postdocs Applicants must have received their Ph.D. no more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting. The appointment length is up to 24 months with potential for extension. Letters of Recommendation Please submit three letters of reference. Letters can be uploaded directly to your application or sent to View email address on click.appcast.io with the position title and number in the subject line. ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT‑Battelle is an E‑Verify employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Oak Ridge National Laboratory