Post-Irradiation Examination (PIE) Research Scientist

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

3d • $79,344 - $195,288 • Onsite

About The Position

The Post-Irradiation Examination (PIE) Research Scientist works at Idaho National Laboratory’s Materials and Fuels Complex, which supports research and development involving highly irradiated fuels and materials. The role contributes to nuclear research by examining irradiated fuels and materials and generating information about their performance. The team follows a 4x10 schedule, with every Friday off.

The scientist plans, designs, and analyzes irradiation experiments to evaluate advanced nuclear fuels and materials. The role focuses on developing post-irradiation examination plans, overseeing data collection and analysis, and publishing results in internal reports and the open literature. The scientist also collaborates with other researchers, modeling experts, program leaders, industry partners, universities, and other organizations; advises on future instrument needs; presents findings; reviews others’ work; and mentors junior staff.

This is a multi-level position, hired at Level 2 or Level 3 depending on the candidate’s experience and skills. Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy “L” clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. This is a testing-designated position requiring pre-employment and periodic drug testing. The role includes work in office and laboratory environments and requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle.

Requirements

• Level 2: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field, with a strong emphasis on materials characterization; no experience required.
• Level 3: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field, with a strong emphasis on materials characterization; two years of experience required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy “L” clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.
• Knowledge of nuclear fuels and materials.
• Experience in the design, fabrication, and/or execution of irradiation experiments.
• Understanding of nuclear reactor systems, theory, and safety as they relate to experiment implementation at a nuclear reactor or facility.
• Ability to assess whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards using relevant information and judgment.
• Listening, oral communication, and written communication skills.
• Analytical reasoning skills, including evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches.
• Ability to perform the physical functions described, including operating job-related equipment and driving a vehicle; occasional lifting or moving of up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to smell and sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform essential functions and interact with people.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with TEM characterization of nuclear materials.
• Familiarity with other microscopy and characterization techniques, such as SEM and XRD.
• Hands-on experience with advanced TEM techniques, including electron diffraction, EELS, and tomography.
• Advanced degree in a related engineering or scientific field from an accredited institution.
• Experience and knowledge relevant to conducting work in accordance with ASME NQA-1 2000 as implemented by the INL Quality Program, or an equivalent standard.
• Experience working with remote systems and hot cells.

Responsibilities

• Engage in ongoing research and development activities for assigned nuclear facilities and conduct research in relevant nuclear specialties.
• Lead the planning, design, and analysis of irradiation experiments to evaluate advanced nuclear fuels and materials.
• Develop post-irradiation examination plans and oversee data collection, reduction, and analysis of performance data.
• Publish results in internal reports and the open literature.
• Analyze and evaluate experimental data from different fuel and cladding concepts.
• Collaborate with INL PIE scientists and modeling experts to expand the understanding and application of PIE experiments and help shorten the nuclear fuel cycle.
• Work with INL program leadership, industry partners, and other collaborators to assess nuclear fuel and cladding performance through post-irradiation examinations.
• Provide input to INL facilities on future instrumentation needs for PIE examinations.
• Author or contribute to publications, present results at national and international conferences, and participate in peer review of work by others.
• Maintain familiarity with scientific literature.
• Establish relationships with U.S. and international universities to develop partnerships supporting future PIE work and the INL mission.
• Mentor or guide junior scientists, technicians, or postdoctoral staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to a 4.8% match for regular positions; postdoctoral positions have self-contribute access.
• Paid time off (personal leave).
• Employee Education Program, including tuition assistance for eligible positions.
• Comprehensive relocation package.

What This Job Offers

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