Gas-Solid Phase Chemistry Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate with a background in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics or comparable discipline for the Analytical Research Laboratory (ARL) Department at the Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC). This postdoctoral researcher will focus on supporting advanced separations and material recovery development experiments performed in the ARL. This role supports MFC programs that rely on accurate analytical measurements and staff chemistry experimental design expertise. Candidates will work with program customers to help design, build and operate experimental systems with hazardous gases such as F2, Cl2, HF, HCl, NF3, and NO2. Candidates will also be required to operate analytical equipment supporting these systems.

Our team works a 4x10 schedule located at the Analytical Research Laboratory at the Materials and Fuels Complex with every Friday off.

The candidate is expected to be a strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and work effectively both alone and as a team member. The candidate must be self-motivated but also take direction from other team members and peers.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Physics, Geology, or a closely related field.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Experience performing analytical measurements, calibrating and validating analytical equipment operations, and data analysis.
• Demonstrated experience in experimental research involving reactive gases.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a proven ability to publish research findings.
• Strong knowledge of chemical reaction mechanisms, gas-phase chemistry, and related analytical techniques.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "L" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on expertise with gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, or spectroscopy techniques.
• Experience setting up and operating in-line analytical measurement techniques for experimental systems.
• Familiarity with radiological laboratory environments and safe handling of activated materials.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Work with engineering staff to design, build, qualify, and maintain experimental systems.
• Qualify to operate remote handling equipment with highly contaminated and radioactive materials.
• Perform hands on work with radioactive systems in fume hoods and glove boxes.
• Develop chemical methods for sample collection and analysis.
• Analyze and report radiological samples.
• Collaborate with MFC operations, experiment leads, engineering, and safety staff to support scientific experiments in the Analytical Research Laboratory.
• Produce high quality technical reports, data packages, and peer reviewed publications documenting advanced experimental and analytical techniques.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree