Molten Salt Electrochemistry Postdoctoral Researcher

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform laboratory-based research and development of electrochemical systems and processes within our Chemical Separations group in the Critical Materials and Geothermal Energy Department. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off. You will report to the Project Investigator. You will develop and optimize electrochemical systems for a variety of pyrometallurgical/molten salt applications including metallic deposition, electrochemical redox stripping, electrophoretic separations, leaching and electrochemical processing. Knowledge and a working background in electrochemical processes in moderate and high temperature molten salt systems in inert environments is required.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Engineering (e.g., chemical engineering or nuclear engineering with emphasis on electrochemical studies) or Ph.D. in Physical Sciences (e.g., chemistry, or materials science, or physics).
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• A developing publication record with demonstrated oral and published written communication skills (in English).
• Demonstrated experience in molten salt electrochemistry, electrodeposition of metals, from fundamental understanding of reduction/nucleation processes to electrochemical engineering and process optimization and production of electrodeposits with desirable composition and material properties.
• Hands-on experience with inert-atmosphere gloveboxes.
• Experience with electroanalytical (CV, CA, CP, EIS) and surface characterization (XRD, SEM) techniques.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in either electrocatalysis, spectro-electrochemistry, or computational/theoretical analysis.
• Experience in molten salt electrolytic cell design.
• Experience with high vacuum systems

Responsibilities

• Be a strong asset to an established R&D team to achieve specific project/program targets and goals on multiple projects within the same area of study.
• Autonomous work and collaborative work taking direction from other team members and peers.
• Writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, project reports and proposals, as well as preparing presentations of research results and presenting them at national/international conferences/workshops/meetings.
• Maintain currency in relevant scientific literature, meet Environment Safety and Health (ES&H) goals, demonstrate a strong commitment to safe laboratory practices, and perform all work in an environmentally safe and compliant manner.

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