Biomass Electroconversion Postdoctoral Researcher

The Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science or comparable discipline for the Energy & Environment Science & Technology Directorate. This postdoctoral position will focus on the electrochemical conversion of bio-derived organics, including reactor design and catalyst development. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work in an interdisciplinary team in developing electrolyzer technology that can operate on bio-derived hydrocarbons. Reaction of interest includes a range of oxidation and reduction reactions, along with Kolbe coupling and electrochemical hydrogenation. An emphasis will be placed on electrolysis that can operate using minimally purified fermentation broths and other complex bio-derived feed stocks and will incorporate elements of electrode/catalyst design to maximize selective, conversion, and durability.

Cross collaboration within the directorate and with other federal labs is anticipated, along with participation in characterization experiments planned at DOE synchrotron radiation facilities.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

• PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science or closely related field.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrate research experience in electrocatalysis and/or electrolyzer development.
• Experience in designing, conducting, and interpreting laboratory experiments.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary and multi-institutional team.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.
• This position requires US Citizenship.

• Experience in electrochemical conversion of organic molecules, including both anodic and cathodic chemistries.
• Experience designing/operating flow cells and similar continuous electrochemical systems.
• Experience in catalyst design and synthesis.
• Experience with catalysts characterization methods, including XRD, electron microscopy.
• Experience with synchrotron diffraction and spectroscopy methods, including associated analysis and modeling packages.
• Experience in performing electrocatalysis with complex feed stocks.
• Experience with analytical methods, such as HPLC, GC-MS, NMR, and so on.
• Demonstrate a strong track record of publishing manuscripts, presenting at international conferences, preparing technical reports, and writing proposals.

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. The employee must occasionally move up to 50 pounds using carts/dollies to move equipment into place.

Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people 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.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained…