Uranium Chemistry and Nuclear Forensics Postdoctoral Researcher

Uranium Chemistry and Nuclear Forensics Postdoctoral Researcher

The Materials & Chemistry Group (MCG) within the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division (NND), a part of the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD), is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in the fields of uranium chemistry and nuclear forensics. The role entails performing and leading cutting-edge research on nuclear fuel cycle-related materials with a focus on solid materials within the uranium fuel cycle. Research topic areas will be related to understanding the effects of material processing on chemical and physical observables and translating this understanding into nuclear forensics applications. The Materials & Chemistry Group focuses on fundamental chemical and physical science related to nuclear fuel cycle materials in support of national security objectives. MCG represents expertise in nuclear materials synthesis and analysis, deployment of advanced analytical methods including crystallography, imaging, spectroscopy, physical property analysis, neutron scattering, and computational chemistry. The candidate will be expected to fruitfully work with MCG chemists and physicists as well as make connections across the laboratory.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Design and execute experimental investigations related to understanding process effects on chemical and physical observables of nuclear fuel cycle materials; improving existing and developing novel nuclear forensics indicators; expanding fundamental uranium material science
• Perform uranium material synthesis using a variety of solution-based and/or solid-phase materials chemistry techniques
• Conduct analysis of nuclear fuel cycle materials via crystallography, thermal analysis, optical spectroscopy, imaging, and elemental analysis.
• Prepare technical reports, journal publications, and technical input for stakeholders
• Contribute to ongoing fuel cycle material-related research projects
• Communicate and coordinate with technical staff members to execute work within shared laboratory spaces
• Contribute to proposal and focus area development and collaborations within the laboratory

Basic Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Minerology, or related field, having been received no more than five (5) years ago
• Demonstrated chemical and material synthesis skills
• Working knowledge of common materials analysis techniques including crystallography and optical spectroscopy
• Demonstrated record of publishing scientific results in peer-reviewed journals
• Ability to hold and maintain a DOE Q security clearance is required, which requires U.S. citizenship

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with actinide materials
• Familiarity with the nuclear fuel cycle and/or nuclear forensics
• Demonstrated expertise in materials characterization
• Willingness and excitement to work in a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent communication skills, including verbal, presentation, and writing skills are required

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.
• Letters of Recommendation: Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to View email address on click.appcast.io (For postdocs, use View email address on click.appcast.io ) with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation. ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience. Other benefits include the following: 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, and Employee Discounts.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory