Associate Research Scientist - Radiation Effects in Ceramics

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) invites applications for a Research Associate position to advance research and development in radiation effects in ceramics. The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in scientific research related to ceramics and ceramic composites used in nuclear fission and fusion reactors, including a deep understanding of radiation damage mechanisms and experience in the processing, testing, and characterization of ceramic materials. This position resides within the Radiation Effects and Microstructural Analysis Group (REMAG) in the Materials in Extreme Environments Section of the Materials Science and Technology Division, Physical Sciences Directorate at ORNL. Working in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fusion Energy Sciences (FES), Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), and Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES), as well as industry and external stakeholders, the incumbent will apply advanced expertise in nuclear materials science to drive innovation and support next-generation energy research initiatives. The position plays a central role in bridging fundamental and applied materials research, enabling transformative advances in fusion and fission energy systems through foundational studies of radiation effects in ceramics and related materials. Targeted at an early-career researcher, this position offers an opportunity to develop into an R&D leader who will strengthen ORNL’s role as a national resource while advancing the DOE mission of clean energy innovation, energy security, and scientific excellence.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Nuclear Engineering (Materials focus), or closely related discipline.
Minimum of one year of post-doctoral or post-Ph.D. research experience in fission and fusion materials, supported by a strong foundation in physical and fundamental materials science.
Demonstrated scientific productivity with a strong track record of lead-author publications in peer-reviewed journals within the past three years.

Nice To Haves

Background in materials science, with knowledge of high-temperature ceramics and radiation effects on materials.
Experience in handling and testing radioactive specimens in a radiation laboratory or hot-cell facility.
Knowledge of the post-irradiation behavior of reactor structural or nuclear fuel materials, or experience analyzing materials behavior under irradiation conditions
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.

Responsibilities

Perform thermophysical measurements and microstructural characterizations on ceramic and composite materials subjected to neutron irradiation in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR).
Coordinate radioactive material testing workflows in collaboration with technical staff across specialized facilities, including the Low Activation Materials Development and Analysis (LAMDA) laboratory and the Irradiated Materials Examination and Testing (IMET) facility.
Establish and uphold laboratory safety procedures for handling and testing radioactive samples in direct coordination with Radiological Control Technicians (RCTs).
Support the development of innovative research projects by contributing to experimental design, material testing, advanced data analysis, and scientific documentation.
Publish scientific findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, technical reports, and present results at relevant technical conferences.
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.