Distinguished R&D Staff - NDA Professional

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

We are currently seeking qualified applicants for a Distinguished Nondestructive Assay (NDA) Scientist in the Non-Destructive Measurement Science and Technology Group within the Safeguards and Treaty Verification Section in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division. The Safeguards and Treaty Verification Section focuses on enhancing scientific concepts, strategies, and technologies that will strengthen the capabilities of USG and international regimes (e.g., the IAEA and partner countries) to safeguard and secure nuclear material, commodities, and technologies from proliferation, improve nuclear safety systems, and enhance treaty verification. The Nondestructive Measurement Science and Technology Group focuses on research, development, and application of nondestructive assay systems, data acquisition technologies and analysis methods that support material control and accounting, operational safety for material processing, and nuclear material security protocols. Provide NDA Research and Development (R&D) leadership to the Non-Destructive Measurement Science and Technology Group thereby strategically advancing science and technology consistent with ORNL’s aspiration to be the world’s premier R&D institution and ORNL’s science culture. The distinguished staff member brings together a group of peers with the primary goals of pursuing global scientific leadership in nondestructive assay and nuclear safeguards and security technology development, developing a strategy to develop a world class measurement and technical capability, nurturing and mentoring group members, and continuing to build and scale up individual excellence and impact in R&D. This position works closely with the R&D line leadership to implement the scientific vision; establish capabilities that enable programs to excel at the forefront of science and technology; perform R&D to advance the field of nondestructive measurement and other nuclear safeguards and security fields; set, implement, and model standards for performance of work consistent with Environment, Safety, Health, and Quality (ESH&Q) requirements and business rules. This position has the opportunity to grow a new research team or group, as well as the possibility to receive lab directed funding for research initiatives. The National Security Sciences Directorate conducts research and development to confront some of the nation’s most difficult security challenges and adversaries. In addition to nuclear nonproliferation, our directorate also houses science and technology (S&T) leadership in cybersecurity and cyber-physical resiliency, data analytics, geospatial science and technology, and high-performance computing for sensitive national security missions. We draw on the Laboratory’s exceptional facilities and work closely with leading researchers in other S&T areas at the lab such as nuclear and chemical sciences and engineering, nuclear fuel cycle and reactor systems, modern nuclear instrumentation and controls, applied materials, advanced manufacturing and intelligent systems, biosecurity, transportation, modeling and simulation, and computing. Our multi-disciplinary research teams are passionate about discovery and innovation as we create science-based solutions to complex security threats that put public safety, national defense, energy infrastructure, and the economy at risk.

Requirements

A PhD in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field and a minimum of 12 years of experience. A combination of education and experience may also be considered.
Demonstrated track record and recognition of R&D leadership across national and international communities that seek to sustain and strengthen the nuclear safeguards and security regime.
Specialization in advanced nuclear reactor safeguards and proliferation resistance evaluations for emerging technology.
Demonstrated knowledge of nuclear fuel cycle and applied nuclear material safeguards
Deep knowledge of MCNP or other Monte Carlo Transport Methods
Demonstrated ability to write winning proposals to government agencies in the area of national security.
Demonstrated ability to successfully lead national security and nuclear safeguards projects as principal investigator.
Demonstrated ability to make significant technical contributions to projects.
Demonstrated ability to present scientific results to sponsors and technical communities.

Nice To Haves

Experience working for or collaborating with DOE National Laboratories (or similar R&D organizations).
Demonstrated ability to design and deliver instructional curricula, engage with university leadership, and develop new educational pathways to ensure the next generation workforce can address the challenges of the evolving nuclear landscape.
Excellent interpersonal skills with a demonstrated leadership ability and a strong commitment to a team environment.
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

Initiate, lead and perform independent and impactful safeguards-related R&D on an ongoing basis as evidenced by, for example, innovative S&T delivered to sponsors, successful proposals, S&T presentations, professional community engagement, inventions/patents/copyrights, publications as appropriate, etc.
Lead program development activities through sponsor engagements, preparation of proposals and whitepapers, participation in workshops, as well as other program development activities.
Develop a vision and implement a cohesive research strategy to ensure the success of new and ongoing research projects related to advanced safeguards science and technology to position the group for future success.
Develop and implement plans to exploit new opportunities and/or expand existing efforts, specifically for advanced reactors.
Lead by example by exercising scientific integrity in proposing, performing, and communicating research.
Lead by example to ensure all work is carried out safely, securely, and in compliance with ORNL policies, standards, and procedures.
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.