Fusion Partnerships Scientist

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The Fusion Energy Division at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated individual to lead ORNL initiatives to partner with the private sector in fusion energy research and development. Leveraging recent growth in private investor interest in fusion development, this individual will work closely with the Fusion Energy Division Director and Private-Public Partnership Lead to motivate, identify, evaluate, and secure opportunities for ORNL partnerships with privately funded companies, universities, and other national laboratories in areas that mutually benefit both the Lab and the private companies.

As part of a team with wide-ranging expertise in fusion science and/or engineering and technology, the candidate will be responsible for leading ORNL’s aspiration to be a key player in establishing a vibrant public-private fusion partnership program in the US. Responsibilities will include developing partnerships with the private sector that leverage and advance ORNL technical strengths; positioning ORNL for potential future siting of private demonstration facilities;

working with DOE and the US community in establishing new modalities for public-private partnerships; and assisting staff in the execution of work agreements with private companies. The incumbent is also expected to take a lead role in the Department of Energy (DOE) Innovation Network for Fusion Energy (INFUSE) program, which has the mission of accelerating fusion energy development in the private sector by reducing impediments to collaboration involving the expertise and unique resources available at DOE laboratories.

The candidate will also have a lead role in the DOE Fusion Milestone Program, supporting the DOE milestone-based fusion development program in the review of scientific and technical milestones. As time permits, the candidate is also encouraged to be an active research participant in areas that advance the US vision of a fusion pilot plant demonstration.

• Participate in leadership of the DOE INFUSE program (pending FES approval)
• Support development and coordinate execution of fusion public-private partnerships at ORNL, working closely with the FED Division Director, PPP lead, ORNL staff and private industry participants
• Participate in evaluations for the Milestone Technical Evaluation Board (pending FES approval)
• Establish, nurture, and secure strong partnerships with private companies that are engaged or seek to be involved in fusion development
• Interface with the Directorate’s Chief Operating Officer in securing timely approval of Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADA) and Strategic Partnership Projects (SPP)
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Perform work according to specific rules and requirements for quality assurance, nuclear material control, radiological work, and general laboratory safety.
• Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.
• 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.

• PhD with a minimum of 6 years relevant experience, a MS with a minimum of 12 years experiences, or a BS with 15 year’s experience.
• Qualified candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading R&D teams
• Scientific productivity demonstrated by a record of lead-authored publications (published, accepted, or submitted)

• Hands-on experience in working in research partnerships, either through research participation or coordination role
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently in conceptualizing, initiating, and evaluating research opportunities
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs
• Expe…