Postdoctoral Research Associate- Fusion Materials & Technology

Overview

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher who will focus on the development and application of separation techniques and fusion materials performance assessment that have applications in multiple sectors of importance in the Department of Energy. The primary focus will be developing separation methods using mass spectrometry including microfluidics, MEMS, and mass spectrometry to study gaseous mixtures and apply such techniques in separation of hydrogen isotopes from contaminants.

The postdoctoral researcher will also investigate the mechanical and thermophysical behavior of irradiated ceramics and alloys for tritium technology development using advanced experimental and computational methods. The researcher will perform characterization of model systems using techniques such as time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Experience in data reduction of big spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and image data are required.

Understanding and hands‑on experiences in vacuum instruments are expected. Skills and hands‑on experience in nano- and micro-fabrication of MEMS and microfluidics are desirable. Hands‑on experience in catalytic reactor design and performing experiments with data reduction are needed. Experience in handling different types of hydrogen isotopic samples and irradiated samples are also desirable. Preparation of composite, ceramic, and alloy samples for testing and performance assessment will be a routine function.

Rad Worker training will be offered for working with irradiated materials.

This position resides in the Advanced Nuclear Materials (ANM) Group in the Materials in Extremes Section, Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). As part of our team, you will study complex materials, form engineering solutions, and develop new techniques to study engineered systems and develop techniques to address physical challenges in building a sustainable energy future for the nation.

• Perform experimental research to evaluate the effects of neutron irradiation on the mechanical and thermophysical properties of nuclear ceramics, composites, and related fusion materials.
• Conduct detailed microstructural and defect characterization of irradiated materials using advanced techniques such as transmission and scanning electron microscopy, SIMS, APT, and related methods.
• Set up and perform experiments involving vacuum pumps, flow meters, and microfluidic reactors to conduct experiments to study model gas mixtures containing hydrogen isotopes using mass spectrometry.
• Understand fundamental separation principles and have hands‑on experience in operating advanced analytical instruments such as ToF‑SIMS, SEM, or Raman.
• Perform data analysis of mass spectrometry (i.e., GC‑MS, LC‑MS, SIMS) and microscopy data sets and coordinate between experimental studies and theoretical simulations.
• Communicate research results through timely peer‑reviewed publications, technical reports, conference presentations, and collaboration with internal ORNL teams and external partners, including contributions to proposals and project development.
• 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 in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemistry (i.e., Analytical, Physical), or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Demonstrated…