Postdoctoral Research Associate- Electrochemical Spectroscopist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

57d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher focused on the development of in situ interfacial characterization techniques for silicon-based materials and to map their electrochemical performance with chemical change. This position resides in the Chemical Dynamics Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (X060), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) but will involve close (daily) collaborations with scientists/team members across the laboratory, specifically the Energy Storage and Conversion Group. Potential candidates are expected to contribute to the development unique science directions, in collaboration with the Team and sponsoring organizations. Furthermore, the position requires collaborating and interacting with staff at ORNL’s Spallation Neutron Source and Battery Manufacturing Facility. This position will support the laboratories mission of world leading interfacial spectroscopy as a key part of energy storage science and delivering solutions to pressing energy storage problems essential to economic develop and security of the United States.

As part of our research team, the candidate will be expected to work across a variety of projects related to electrochemical analysis, surface specific spectroscopy, and battery materials for vehicle and aircrafts. Applicants are expected to perform experiments to direct and control interfacial reactions within energy storage materials. In addition, the applicant will be expected to help train new scientists (graduate students, post-BS, and post-docs) with suitable laboratory procedures and aspects related to safety and best practices. The candidate will make extensive use of state-of-the-art imaging, spectroscopy (Raman, electron microscopy, infrared, etc.) and scattering methods (both X-ray and neutrons). Other characterization studies will be implemented as appropriate for the materials including photoelectron spectroscopy and impedance spectroscopy. Applicants will be expected to compose or participate in the composition of reports and peer reviewed publications.

Requirements

• A PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Proficiency in developing techniques and data.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience.
• Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver license within 10 days of arriving to operate DOE vehicles on-site.
• Motivated with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative and frequently interacting teams of researchers.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
• Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.
• A Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
• Successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.
• For foreign national candidates:If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with interface battery chemistry, specifically x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
• Electrochemistry background, specifically time-resolved impedance.
• An excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals, patents or commercial products.

Responsibilities

• Electrochemical analysis of anode corrosion.
• Design and evaluate special cells required for in situ and time-resolved studies.
• Synthesis of composite electrodes.
• Perform characterization studies of battery materials.
• Coordinate research with other team members inside and outside ORNL.
• Work with sponsors to achieve project goals and deliverables.
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in 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

What This Job Offers

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