Postdoc Associate - Synthesis and (Radio)Chemical Separations

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

13d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate with a strong background in organic synthesis to develop, characterize, and test new molecules for the chelation and separation of metal ions relevant to isotope production and energy. This position resides in the Chemical Separations Group in the Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), under the mentorship of Dr. Nikki Thiele. As part of the Chemical Separations Group, you will have the opportunity to work with a multidisciplinary team comprising specialists in organic and inorganic synthesis, coordination chemistry, thermodynamics, laser spectroscopy, materials characterization, chemical separations, computational chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Our cold labs house state-of-the-art instruments including a triple-quad ICP mass spectrometer, single-crystal X-ray diffractometer, potentiometric titrators, and ultrafast laser systems. Our radiochemistry facility boasts 6 hoods and 2 gloveboxes equipped for radiological work, and an array of radioanalytical instruments for the detection of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-emitting isotopes and quantification of radioactive complexes. As part of our research team, you will be responsible for delivering high impact research results focused on advancing the development of novel chelation strategies to selectively bind rare earth elements, alkaline earth elements, and anions, and the application of these chelators in solid-liquid and liquid-liquid separation schemes.

Requirements

• A PhD in chemistry or a related discipline, completed within the last five years

Nice To Haves

• Highly motivated and enthusiastic go-getter with the ability to work independently to drive projects forward
• A strong background in multi-step synthesis of chelators or other organic molecules on the gram scale; isolation/purification techniques (e.g., column chromatography, crystallization, etc.); and characterization methods (e.g., NMR, UV-vis, and FT-IR spectroscopies, mass spectrometry, HPLC, etc.)
• Radiochemistry experience is preferred
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs
• Ability to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on synthesis and characterization of novel organic compounds to meet project goals
• Use a variety of methods to characterize and evaluate newly synthesized molecular receptors (e.g., TLC, HPLC, potentiometric titrimetry, UV-vis spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction)
• Execute solid-liquid and liquid-liquid separations experiments and evaluate the results using analytical techniques such as ICP-OES and ICP-MS
• Participate in project planning and execution
• Present and report research results at group meetings and national conferences
• Publish scientific results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Benefits

• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts
• medical and retirement plans
• flexible work hours
• on-site fitness
• banking
• cafeteria facilities

What This Job Offers

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