R&D Associate - Vapor Synthetic Material Scientist

R&D Associate - Vapor Synthetic Material Scientist

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a research vapor phase synthetic material scientist who will focus on the chemical evaluation of vapor grown high temperature ceramic and ceramic composite systems and their relationship to microstructure and performance metrics. This position resides in the Ceramics and Ceramic Composites (CCC) Group, Materials Processing Science and Engineering (MPSE) Section of the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD).

The individual will also interact and coordinate with other team members in other ORNL Research Divisions. As part of our research team, you will collaborate with senior technical staff who are world leaders in ceramic science and engineering through sponsorship from the US Department of Energy Critical Materials Energy Infrastructure HEGO and AMMTO offices. Your role will be to elucidate synthetic approaches on materials properties using the advanced suite of characterization equipment available at ORNL and help drive ongoing efforts to improve their performance and reliability.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Chemical vapor coating and infiltration of high temperature ceramic systems
• Develop new or refined testing methods and ceramic processing and fabrication that will ultimately improve property performance
• Synthesize new ceramic and/or polymeric materials
• Coordinate task efforts within a highly collaborative environment of national laboratories, industry, and academic partners
• Report research results through conferences and peer-reviewed journals and classified technical reports where required
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Work with a variety of teams in addressing diverse advanced characterization needs of multiple classes of brittle materials and manufacturing processes

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in Chemistry, Ceramic Science or Engineering, Materials Science or Engineering, or a related discipline
• Strong background in inorganic synthesis
• Experience with high temperature ceramic systems, characterization and chemical vapor coating and infiltration, and synthesis of new material systems

Preferred Qualifications:

• Postdoctoral research experience
• Experienced with: chemical vapor coating and/or infiltration ceramic powder and slurry characterization methods, mixing, and flowability chemical reactions for polymers and synthesis of new materials reactor design
• Experience working with radiological materials
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

Special Requirements:

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy.
• As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.
• Letters of Recommendation:
  Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to psdrecruit.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) 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! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment.

These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience. Other benefits include the following:
Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified…