Postdoctoral Research Associate- Thermal Energy Storage Group

Requisition Id16354

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on thermal energy storage and building equipment technologies. This position resides in the Thermal Energy Storage Group in the Building Technology Research, Building and Transportation Section, Energy Science and Technology Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting, coordinating, and reporting complex research assignments related to energy conversion systems including:

• Design and develop experimental setups; plan and execute experimental campaigns; perform thermofluid analyses; and analyze and interpret results.
• Conduct experimental and laboratory research on thermal energy storage technologies, sorption systems, compressors, heat exchangers, HVAC systems, and related technologies.
• Develop and apply system-level models to support research and design activities.
• Prepare technical reports, journal publications, and conference papers; present research findings to sponsors and diverse audiences.
• Contribute to idea generation and proposal development.
• Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams to maintain high scientific productivity and achieve project objectives.
• Communicate and coordinate with operations and technical staff to support successful project execution.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality (ESH&Q) standards and requirements.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

• A PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering completed within the last 5 years.
• Laboratory and experimental experience

• Experience in the design, development, and operation of experimental thermal-fluid systems, including design of experiments and the use of mechanical systems and instrumentation.
• Knowledge in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat and mass transfer, with experience in heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems.
• Self-motivated team player with strong interpersonal skills, able to collaborate across organizational levels in a fast-paced environment; adaptable to evolving project needs and sponsor priorities.
• Willingness and ability to learn new research areas and contribute effectively with initiative and enthusiasm.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated record of technical publications.
• Experience with DOE-funded or industry-sponsored projects and project/task management skills is highly desirable.

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.

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will…