Postdoctoral Research Associate - Organic and Critical Minerals Separation Chemist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

64d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate in Organic Chemistry and/or Critical Materials Separation Science to develop next-generation ligands and functionalized sorbents for the selective extraction and recovery of gallium (Ga), germanium (Ge), and other critical minerals from complex zinc-processing feedstocks. The successful candidate will conduct organic synthesis, materials characterization, solvent extraction, and solid-phase separation studies to advance sustainable critical mineral recovery technologies. This position resides in the Nanomaterials Chemistry Group in the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

As part of our research team, you will be responsible for delivering high impact research results to advance the work on Gallium and Germanium separations. You will be very closely working with specialists in synthesis, separations chemistry, radiochemistry, theory, spectroscopy, and materials characterization. This project will develop materials and processing technologies that will result in a transformational improvement in separation and recovery methods for Gallium and Germanium.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in organic or inorganic or polymer chemistry, materials science or a related field completed within the last 5 years.

Nice To Haves

• Background in separations chemistry of metal ions, most desirably experience with Gallium and/or transition metals/lanthanides and experience with electrochemical separation is a plus
• Experience in ligand synthesis, functionalization of resins or polymers.
• Experience with sorbent extraction, adsorption, or packed-column systems for separation and use of appropriate analytical techniques such as ICP-OES or ICP-MS
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs
• Hands-on experience designing, synthesizing, characterizing, and evaluating materials for separation applications
• A strong track record of productive and creative research proven by publications in peer-reviewed journals
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize organic ligands, functionalization of resins, polymers.
• Design and execute adsorption based solid-liquid and liquid-liquid separation experiments to meet project goals
• Use analytical techniques such as NMR, MS, FT-IR, TGA, DSC, XRD, BET, SEM for characterization.
• Perform ion separation experiments, use ICP to determine ion concentrations
• Collaborate with ORNL staff, University collaborators, Industry partners who are involved in the project
• Participate in project planning and execution
• Present and report research results at the project, group, PI meetings and national conferences
• 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

• medical and retirement plans
• flexible work hours
• 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