Postdoctoral Research Associate - Synthetic Polymer Chemist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

25d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on polymer synthesis and characterization for fundamental understanding of depolymerization and polymerization of polymers coupled with autonomous chemistry. This position resides in the Soft Materials and Membranes group in the Separation and Polymer Chemistry section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). As part of our team, the postdoc will synthesize novel polymers (both polymerization and depolymerization) especially utilizing robotic autonomous chemistry, unravel mechanistic understanding, valorize to new polymers using depolymerized building blocks, as well as conduct their characterization. The project is highly collaborative, and the postdoc will work with other polymer scientists, physicists, computational scientists, as well as neutron scattering experts.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a closely related field completed in the last 5 years
• Experience in polymer or organic synthesis and characterization methods
• A Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.
• All employees must also be able 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.
• To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.
• This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
• 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.
• Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.
• 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.
• The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension.
• Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.
• Please submit three letters of reference when applying for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge and expertise in multi-step organic synthesis including monomer synthesis, well-defined polymers and controlled functionalization, depolymerization of polymers, autonomous robotic chemistry, rigorous NMR characterization, and mechanical and thermal characterization of polymers
• 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

• Conduct controlled depolymerization of polymers
• Synthesize novel polymers
• Operate and execute autonomous chemistry and their characterization
• Research the structural, mechanical and thermal characterization of polymers
• Responsible for presenting and reporting research results and publishing scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong commitment 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
• on-site fitness
• banking
• cafeteria facilities
• 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