Nuclear Fuel Modeling Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Nuclear Engineering Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in the Fuel Development, Performance, and Qualification department. The team works a 9x80 schedule located at the Research and Education Campus in Idaho Falls with every other Friday off.

You will investigate different nuclear fuel systems, and the methods used to model engineering fuel performance. Specifically, there will be a focus on U‑Zr, U‑Pu‑Zr, U‑TRU‑Zr, and U‑10

Mo fuel systems, with others as needed. A strong background in nuclear materials, reactor physics, and reactor thermohydraulics is required. A solid understanding of numerical methods related to nuclear fuel simulations is also required.

You will apply nuclear science and engineering principles toward the development of simulation practices related to nuclear fuels. This includes developing and performing modeling techniques for fuel performance and subsequent analysis and characterization to support further development and testing efforts.

• Perform finite element analysis on nuclear fuel performance criteria and compare experimental data with simulation results
• Develop simulation methodologies for nuclear fuel performance analysis
• Collaborate with experimental researchers to establish research plans beneficial to programmatic and INL missions
• Support fuel design and qualification efforts
• Review previous and current work to stay up to date on current research efforts
• Document results in internal reports and peer reviewed journal publications
• Present work to colleagues and stakeholders in both oral and written formats through technical presentations and at conferences
• Participate in professional development activities

• Ph.D. completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years
• Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering or a closely related field
• Knowledge of nuclear science and engineering modeling techniques
• Previous experience modeling nuclear related phenomena
• Proficiency with a coding language
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills in English
• Demonstrated expertise (through peer‑reviewed publications) in principles of nuclear and/or thermomechanical simulation
• Demonstrated ability to work closely with multi‑disciplinary groups to achieve research results

• Experience with finite element modeling tools (i.e. ABAQUS, BISON)
• Proficiency with one or more of the following coding languages:
  Fortran, C++, Python, MATLAB
• Experience with verification/validation, sensitivity, or stochastic analysis of simulation tools
• Successful record of writing and being awarded research grants

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job‑related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds without assistance.

Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self‑contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science‑based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than…