Materials Tribology Researcher

An educational platform on tribology — the science of friction, wear and lubrication

Who is it for

Engineers, researchers, students and industry professionals

We are seeking a Materials Tribology Researcher who will focus on materials development and characterization for tribological applications. This position resides in the Surface Engineering and Tribology Group in the Materials Structure and Processing Section, Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Science Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

As part of our research team, you will work with ORNL’s world-class experts and have access to the state-of-the‑art facilities to make major contributions to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) projects on development and characterization of advanced materials, coatings, and surface treatments to reduce friction and wear for improved efficiency and reliability of renewable energy systems and nuclear reactors. You will lead (i) development of materials, coating and surface treatment, (ii) materials and surface characterization, (iii) bench tribological testing, friction and wear measurement, and data analysis, and (iv) investigation of the tribochemical reactions at the contact interfaces.

Given that tribology truly is an interdisciplinary area, we’re looking for someone that will be open-minded in applying combined materials, mechanical and chemical technologies and in collaborating with researchers from other groups, divisions, and industrial partners. In addition to meeting project milestones and producing high impact publications, being involved in professional societies and contributing to local communities is also highly encouraged.

• Identify the failure modes and wear mechanisms via tribosystem analysis
• Develop, characterize, and evaluate candidate materials, coatings and surface treatments
• Carry out bench-scale tribological testing, friction and wear measurement, and data analysis
• Investigate tribochemical interactions at the critical contact interfaces
• Correlate between bench testing results and actual component performance
• Coordinate research with other team members inside and outside ORNL
• Work with sponsors to achieve project goals and deliverables
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer‑reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

• A Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with at least one year of post‑Ph.D. experience
• Background in experimental tribology and materials characterization

• Experience in experimental tribology
• Experience in development of advanced materials, coatings and surface treatments
• Familiarity with materials and surface characterization tools
• Experience in heat transfer and/or contact mechanics modeling
• Experience proposal writing
• Strong interest and aptitude for experimental, hands‑on laboratory work
• Motivated and safety conscious
• Excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer‑reviewed journals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate to an international, scientific audience
• 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

This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

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.