Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Oak Ridge Innovation Institute - UTK

University of Tennessee • Knoxville, TN

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The UT-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (UT-ORII) is seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate for the Fusion Technology and Materials for Extreme Environments Convergent Research Initiative. This grant-funded, limited-term position (approximately 6 months with possibility of renewal) requires a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or an equivalent advanced degree. The role involves applied research in areas such as lithium chemistry, hydrogen chemistry, sintering, and powder metallurgy, with a strong emphasis on publishing peer-reviewed papers and managing laboratory operations. UT-ORII, a collaboration between the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, aims to strengthen STEM talent and accelerate discovery in critical research areas.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering or equivalent advanced degree.
• Knowledge and experience in laboratory management, including but not limited to: Export Control, Inventory, Student Training, Chemical Inventory Management and Purchasing.
• Experience in the areas of lithium chemistry, sintering, powder metallurgy and chemical engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to publish peer reviewed papers using sound principles and strategic approaches to their research, at least two first author publications in peer reviewed journals, with co-authorships from collaborations in the laboratory.
• Experience in manuscript writing, conference presentations, and grant proposal support.
• An ability to: Conduct research and development within a collaborative environment.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Manage interpersonal conflicts skillfully.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Strong team player with excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

Nice To Haves

• Mentorship experience of undergraduate and/or graduate students.

Responsibilities

• Applied research in the areas of lithium chemistry, hydrogen chemistry, sintering, powder metallurgy and chemical engineering.
• Publish research in the form of reports and / or demonstrate the ability to publish peer reviewed papers using sound principles and strategic approaches to their research.
• Laboratory management, including but not limited to Export Control, Inventory, Student Training, Chemical Inventory Management and Purchasing.
• Oversee radiological upgrade procedures, including documentation and adjustments to existing SOWs to Rad Worker I or II equivalent operations.
• Leverage capability in conjunction with the research team in the 2nd year, with performance metrics aiming for 25% recovery.

What This Job Offers

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