Nuclear Fuel Performance Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

28d

About The Position

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate to support national fuel development and qualification efforts within the Fuel Development, Performance and Qualification department. The successful candidate will focus on analyzing experimental data from irradiated fuels and materials to understand performance and degradation mechanisms. While microscopy may be used on an as-needed basis, the primary focus is on interpreting post-irradiation examination (PIE) data and integrating findings into fuel performance models. The role offers opportunities to contribute to national research programs and collaborate with industry partners.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years
• Experience analyzing experimental data related to irradiated materials or nuclear fuels
• Understanding of irradiation effects, materials degradation, or fuel behavior under extreme conditions

Nice To Haves

• Background in fuel performance modeling or materials degradation mechanisms
• Experience conducting beamline experiments (electron, ion, synchrotron, or neutron) for imaging, scattering, or diffraction
• Familiarity with microscopy techniques (SEM, TEM, FIB)
• Strong publication record and ability to work in collaborative research environments

Responsibilities

• Analyze PIE data to identify irradiation-induced changes in fuels and structural materials
• Correlate experimental observations with thermomechanical behavior and fuel performance
• Support the development of data-driven insights to inform fuel qualification strategies
• Conduct microscopy-based characterization (e.g., SEM, TEM, FIB) as needed to support data interpretation
• Collaborate with modeling teams to integrate experimental results into simulation frameworks
• Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and present findings at conferences
• Engage with multidisciplinary teams across national labs, academia, and industry

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees