Post-Irradiation Examination (PIE) Research Scientist

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

3d • Onsite

About The Position

As part of INL’s Nuclear Nexus, the Post-Irradiation Examination (PIE) Research Scientist advances nuclear energy research by examining irradiated fuels and materials. The work supports the development of safe, reliable nuclear energy solutions and is based at INL’s Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC), which provides facilities for remote work on highly irradiated fuels and materials. MFC supports research in which fuel can be designed, fabricated, tested, and analyzed, in collaboration with universities, industry partners, other national laboratories, international research organizations, and federal agencies.

The scientist plans, designs, and analyzes irradiation experiments to evaluate advanced nuclear fuels and materials; develops post-irradiation examination plans; oversees data collection, reduction, and analysis; and publishes findings in internal reports and open literature. The role involves collaborating with INL scientists, modeling experts, program leadership, industry partners, and other collaborators, as well as advising on future instrument needs for PIE examinations. The scientist also presents research, contributes to peer review, builds university partnerships, and mentors junior staff. The team works a 4x10 schedule with every Friday off.

This is a multi-level position, with placement at Level 2 or Level 3 based on the depth and breadth of demonstrated experience and skills. The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy “L” clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. It is a testing-designated position and requires a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing.

Requirements

• Level 2: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field with a strong emphasis on materials characterization; no years of experience required.
• Level 3: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field with a strong emphasis on materials characterization and 2 years of experience.
• 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 related to implementing experiments at a nuclear reactor or facility.
• Ability to use relevant information and judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
• Analytical reasoning, including using logic to evaluate alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches.
• Effective listening and communication skills, including communicating information in writing, by telephone, email, or in person.
• Ability to understand spoken information and communicate ideas verbally.

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 such as electron diffraction, EELS, and tomography.
• Advanced degree in a related engineering or scientific field from an accredited institution.
• Experience and knowledge relevant to executing work in accordance with ASME NQA-1 2000 as implemented by the INL Quality Program, or equivalent.
• Experience working with remote systems and hot cells.

Responsibilities

• Engage in ongoing research and development activities for an assigned nuclear facility at INL.
• Conduct research in a variety of 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 open literature.
• Analyze and evaluate data from experiments on different fuel and cladding concepts.
• Collaborate with INL PIE scientists and modeling experts to expand the understanding and application of PIE experiments.
• Work with INL program leadership, industry partners, and other collaborators to assess nuclear fuel and cladding performance through PIE.
• Provide insight to INL facilities regarding future instrument needs for PIE examinations.
• Author or contribute to publications in the area of specialty.
• Present results at national and international conferences.
• Contribute to peer review of work within or external to the PIE department.
• Maintain familiarity with scientific literature.
• Establish relationships with U.S. and international universities to develop partnerships that support future PIE work and advance the INL mission.
• Mentor or provide guidance to junior scientists, technicians, or post-doctoral staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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