Postdoctoral Fellow; PREP

Post-Doctoral Researcher:
Lithium Battery Recycling (U.S. Citizens Preferred)

The Material Measurement Laboratory (MML), part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking a Post-Doctoral Researcher to support the Circular Economy program and critical minerals recovery research. The successful candidate will develop analytical methods for quantifying the elemental composition of mixed lithium battery waste (e.g., black mass) using ICP-OES. This role involves validating characterization processes and improving supply chains for critical materials/minerals.

• Method Development:
  Establish bulk and trace analytical quantification methods for battery waste using ICP-OES and/or neutron activation.
• Sample Preparation:
  Perform milling, grinding, and acid digestion of complex battery materials and associated reference materials.
• Data Analysis:
  Execute measurements, interpret complex datasets, and validate results against industry standards.
• Communication:
  Prepare findings for peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and oral presentations.
• Compliance:
  Maintain strict adherence to institutional safety requirements, including radiological and hazardous chemical protocols.

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience with ICP-OES and acid digestion (minimum 3 years).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and a track record of meeting milestones in multidisciplinary teams.
• Comfortable working with large volumes of hazardous chemicals and under radiological conditions.
• Familiarity with Li-ion battery chemistry, mineral processing, mechanical separations, or nuclear analytical methods (preferred).

This associate researcher position is for 1 to 2 years, with the option to renew and/or pursue longer-term federal employment pending funding availability. Associate researchers are not Federal Employees but work alongside NIST researchers with access to world‑class instrumentation. Relocation expenses will not be provided.

$70,000 – $85,000

The National Institute of Standards and Technology is committed to equal opportunity for its faculty, staff, and students. The organization does not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristic. Qualified individuals are provided access to all academic and employment programs, benefits, and activities based on performance and merit.

EEO is the Law.