Research & Development Associate - Probing Structure Evolution in Manufactured Biomaterials

Requisition  Overview:
We are seeking an R&D Associate who will focus on microfabrication and mesoscale material synthesis via liquid–liquid phase separation of biomass fractions. This position resides in the Carbon and Composites Group in the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  Major Duties/Responsibilities:  Conduct experiments to build phase diagram of biomass-solvent-nonsolvent fractions for facile separation of biomass fractions

Synthesize materials with hierarchical morphology via non-equilibrium phase separation

Conduct microfabrication and mesoscale material synthesis

Develop fluid mechanics models for understanding fluid transport during processing

Manufacture fibers from oligomeric biomaterials for multifunctional use Manufacture functionalized porous fibers for separation and enrichment applications

Work both independently and collaboratively with co-workers, principal investigators, and other staff members to follow procedures for polymer synthesis and characterization and to develop new processing methods.

Laboratory space management and maintain hazardous chemical inventory management.

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.

Basic Qualifications:

A PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline with particular focus on nonequilibrium morphologies in soft materials via liquid-liquid self-assembly and associated interfacial phenomena  A minimum of 3 years of experience post PhD in design of functional polymeric materials via multiphase fluid processing

Experienced in microscopic analysis of polymer morphologies

Experienced in Python for data analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

Expertise in multiphase polymer solution processing

Safety conscious

Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and a willingness to participate creatively in a collaborative team environment

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 will not be available for this position.

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required.  Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (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.  This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year.  This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

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 ORNLRecruiting…