Nuclear Engineering Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is looking for a highly qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in nuclear engineering, specializing in nuclear reactor core design, multiphysics analysis, and plant reload optimization. This role will concentrate on power uprates in light water reactors, utilizing accident-tolerant fuel cladding and LEU+ nuclear fuel, and developing a platform for multiphysics core design optimization.

The ideal candidate will possess in-depth knowledge of reactor physics and fuel performance along with experience in reactor core modeling using fuel depletion system codes. Additionally, expertise in developing and applying optimization algorithms, including metaheuristic evolutionary algorithms and reinforcement learning, is essential.

This position requires a proactive and creative individual capable of contributing significantly to our interdisciplinary R&D team, both independently and collaboratively. The candidate should be adept at efficiently completing tasks as directed by project managers and principal investigators. An excellent postdoctoral researcher will bring fresh insights that help our team propose innovative ideas, overcome challenges, and enhance the impact of our work.

Responsibilities include writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication and milestone reports and presenting research findings at conferences and meetings, requiring strong communication skills.

Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

• PhD in Nuclear Engineering.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills in English.

• Understanding reactor physics, reactor core design, and constraints induced by neutronics and fuel performance.
• Proficiency in reactor core modeling with fuel depletion codes (e.g., PARCS, VERA-CS).
• Experience with fuel modeling using fuel performance codes (e.g., FAST, BISON) is advantageous.
• Proficient in programming languages (e.g., Python, Bash).
• Experience in developing optimization models.
• Experience in proposal writing.

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.

• The pay for this position is $ Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

• 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.

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.