Energy-Water Systems Scientist

Overview

Energy and water systems are deeply intertwined, and advancing science at their intersection is critical to the nation's future. We are seeking a scientist with domain expertise in energy‑water interactions and interdependence to perform cutting‑edge research in the Water Resources Sciences and Engineering Group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This is an opportunity to develop novel tools and techniques, publish in top‑tier journals, collaborate with industry and academic partners, and access world‑leading research computing facilities—all while working on problems of national significance.

Requisition

• Develop, improve, and implement novel energy‑water theories, techniques, and models to promote the growth and resilience of domestic power generation.
• Lead and participate in research partnerships with industrial and academic partners.
• Lead proposals for future research related to clean and renewable energy development.
• Publish high‑quality, impactful, peer‑reviewed journal articles and reports.
• 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.

• A PhD in Hydrology, Water Resources, Engineering, Physics, Environmental Science, or related discipline.
• 0–2 years of relevant experience.

• Postdoctoral experience with strong focus on research at the intersection of energy and water systems.

For employment at ORNL, a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to DOE access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal PIV card as mandated by HSPD‑12 and 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.

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three‑year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential.

As a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80‑year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals. ORNL is a world‑leading research environment supported by high‑performance computing, interdisciplinary teamwork, and significant funding for cutting‑edge science. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), pension, life insurance, disability, generous vacation and holidays, parental leave, legal insurance, mandatory self‑servicing accounts, well‑being programs, educational assistance, relocation assistance, and employee discounts.

On‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5 MB in size. Resumes from third‑party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

Please email ORNLRecruiting if you have trouble applying.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT‑Battelle is an E‑Verify employer.