Post Doctorate RA - Battery Materials & Systems

Post Doctorate Research Associate

The Battery Materials and Systems (BMS) Group within the Energy Processes and Materials Division of the Energy and Environment Directorate at PNNL is currently seeking a Post Doctorate Research Associate to work on the electrode processing, development of electrolytes for lithium metal and lithium-ion batteries. The successful candidate will join a team of over 60 world-class scientists and engineers working on a diverse portfolio of battery technologies.

The successful candidate's primary working scope will be on the design and synthesis of high-performance electrode materials and electrolytes for Li battery. The candidate needs to have the ability to perform in-depth research independently and collaborate effectively in a team. Knowledge of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), electrochemistry and materials science and hands-on experience with battery material synthesis, electrolyte screening, cell fabrication and testing are required for the job.

The successful candidate's will work with PM, PI and other senior scientists to advance development of develop innovative electrolyte recipes to drive up the performance and lower the cost of Li batteries. Collaborate with a team of scientists and engineers within or outside of the group to identify and understand the working mechanisms through advanced characterization and theoretical simulation.

Specifically, the candidate will:

• Provide technical contribution and leadership through problem-solving, innovation and creativity, which will include screening of various Li battery electrolytes and electrode materials scaling-up materials. The candidate will lead development of new methods of electrode processing.
• Conduct ML/AI to accelerate the design of the electrolyte formulations and expend the electrolyte chemical library.
• Conduct and monitor state-of-the-art experimentation that adheres to PNNL safety standards, policies, and procedures. Use know-how to help improve overall laboratory safety culture. Demonstrate accurate record keeping of all calculations and experiments.
• Work effectively in a team of senior scientists/engineers and junior researchers/students of diverse background to safely conduct research and accomplish project objectives; receive guidance on new assignments, independently complete recurring assignments, select and develop technical approaches on assignments with oversight on complex problems, develops new ideas for funded research and builds professional reputation both inside and outside of PNNL.
• Contribute clear and concise written and oral presentations of data, analysis, and internal/external reports. Prepare manuscripts for publications and present their work at project reviews and national/international conferences.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry or other related fields from an accredited college or university.
• Synthesis of electrode materials and electrolyte screening.
• A strong background in ML/AI.
• A strong background in Li battery research are desired.
• Candidates are preferred to possess excellent problem-solving skills based and thorough understanding of engineering, material science and electrochemistry principles.
• Desire to have demonstrated technical aptitude in a laboratory environment, including cell fabrication, electrochemical testing and characterization techniques, experimental setup and operation.
• The candidate should have strong analytical, task management, and technical communication skills.
• Good written and oral communication skills and an ability to collaborate effectively.