Postdoctoral Appointee – Radiochemical Separations and Chemical Process Engineering

Argonne National Laboratory • Lemont, IL

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Chemical and Fuel Cycle Technologies Division is seeking a Postdoctoral Appointee with expertise in radiochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field to support experimental research in radiochemical separations and advanced aqueous recycling of used nuclear fuel (UNF). The successful candidate will contribute to the development and optimization of advanced aqueous recycling options for UNF and related separations flowsheets, with an emphasis on hands-on experimental work in radiochemistry laboratory environments. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists, engineers, and technical staff in a highly collaborative research environment and will be expected to maintain a strong commitment to safe radiological work practices, rigorous experimental methods, and high-quality research outcomes.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Radiochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field completed in the past 5 years or soon-to-be completed
• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship
• Experience designing, building, and testing experimental setups for chemical or related process research
• Knowledge of aqueous separations chemistry, radiochemical methods, or nuclear fuel cycle-related chemical processes
• Experience with one or more relevant separation methods such as solvent extraction, ion exchange, adsorption, precipitation, or related unit operations
• Experience with instrumentation, sensors, data acquisition, and control systems for laboratory-scale process equipment
• Demonstrated ability to independently plan and execute experimental research
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience working with radiotracers, radioactive isotopes, irradiated targets, or related laboratory-scale radiochemical studies is preferred, or demonstrated aptitude to develop these capabilities through training based on strong hands-on chemistry or chemical engineering laboratory experience

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute radiochemical laboratory experiments involving radiotracers, irradiated targets and materials, and aqueous separations in controlled environments such as radiological hoods, gloveboxes, and hot cells
• Design, assemble, operate, troubleshoot, test, and optimize experimental systems and specialized apparatus, including fluid handling systems, centrifugal contactors, sample preparation methods, and instrumentation, to support advanced aqueous recycling of UNF
• Evaluate separations performance for actinides, lanthanides, and fission products through experimental testing and data analysis
• Prepare test plans and operating procedures, and contribute to technical documentation, reports, publications, and sponsor deliverables
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and maintain a strong commitment to safe work practices and compliance with laboratory requirements
• Author or co-author research proposals and white papers focused on bringing new R&D opportunities to the division

Benefits

• comprehensive benefits

What This Job Offers

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