Postdoctoral Research Associate-Electrochemist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

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About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop inorganic sorbents for the selective extraction and recovery of gallium and other critical minerals from complex feedstocks using electrochemical approaches. The successful candidate will conduct inorganic synthesis, electrochemical extractions, and materials characterization to advance sustainable critical mineral recovery technologies. The position is in the Nanomaterials Chemistry Group, Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate.

The researcher will deliver impactful research on gallium and other critical-material separations, working closely with specialists in synthesis, separations chemistry, theory, spectroscopy, and materials characterization. The project aims to develop materials and processing technologies that substantially improve critical-mineral separation and recovery methods.

The appointment may last up to 24 months, with potential extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and funding availability. Applicants must have completed all degree requirements before starting and cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years before applying. Applicants must submit three letters of reference.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, polymer chemistry, materials science, or a related field, completed within the last five years.
• Complete all degree requirements before starting the appointment.
• Submit three letters of reference.

Nice To Haves

• Background in metal-ion separations chemistry, preferably involving gallium, lithium, or lanthanides, and experience with electrochemical separation.
• Background in aqueous energy storage involving ion interaction and extraction through electrochemical approaches.
• Experience in inorganic and organic materials synthesis, battery testing, and electrochemical characterization such as CV, LSV, Tafel plots, and GITT.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced research environment, prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing needs.
• Hands-on experience designing, synthesizing, characterizing, and evaluating materials for separation applications.
• A strong record of productive and creative research demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and contribute creatively to collaborative teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize inorganic materials, especially ion intercalation compounds.
• Design and execute adsorption using electrochemical approaches to meet project goals.
• Characterize materials using techniques such as NMR, MS, FT-IR, TGA, DSC, XRD, BET, SEM, and TEM.
• Perform ion separation experiments and use ICP to determine ion concentrations.
• Collaborate with ORNL staff, university collaborators, and industry partners involved in the project.
• Participate in project planning and execution.
• Present and report research results at project, group, and PI meetings and at national conferences.
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Uphold ORNL's values and ethics, and promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace.

Benefits

• Medical plans
• Retirement plans
• Flexible work hours
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• 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