Postdoc - Mechanical Behavior of Advanced Structural Alloys by Engineering Diffraction

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

77d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct Mechanical Behavior of Advanced Structural Alloys by Engineering Diffraction. This position resides in the Materials Engineering Group within the Large Scale Structure Section, Neutron Scattering Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The selected candidate will work in a highly collaborative environment including teams in Neutron Sciences Directorate and Physical Sciences Directorate, leveraging state-of-the-art neutron characterization and other characterization tools to develop a mechanistic understanding of deformation, strengthening, and failure in advanced alloys. The research will focus on integrating microstructure characterization, in situ diffraction techniques, and mechanical testing to uncover processing–microstructure–property relationships. The candidate will have opportunities to interact with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to high-impact publications and collaborative projects.

Requirements

• A PhD in materials science & engineering, physics, chemistry, or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience utilizing computational thermodynamic (CALPHAD) software, such as Thermo-Calc, DICTRA, PANDAT, or FactSage.
• Proficiency in materials data analytics, including correlation analysis and machine learning techniques.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.
• 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.
• Must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.
• Must not 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.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with microstructure characterization techniques (SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD).
• Experience in mechanical testing (tension, compression, fatigue, creep, nanoindentation) and in situ neutron or synchrotron diffraction techniques.
• Background in advanced structural alloys, including high-entropy alloys or precipitation-strengthened systems.
• Familiarity with diffraction and data analysis tools (e.g., GSAS, GSAS-II, VDRIVE).
• Experience in alloy fabrication and processing (e.g., arc melting, thermomechanical processing, additive manufacturing).
• Knowledge of deformation mechanisms such as dislocation slip, twinning, and precipitation strengthening.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on deformation mechanisms and mechanical behavior of advanced structural alloys.
• Conduct in situ neutron diffraction experiments to study micromechanical behavior under loading conditions (e.g., tension, compression, creep).
• Perform detailed microstructural characterization using SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD, and related techniques.
• Analyze lattice strain evolution, phase stress, and defect evolution using advanced data analysis tools.
• Perform alloy fabrication and processing (e.g., arc melting, heat treatment) and relate processing to performance.
• Apply analytical and modeling approaches to interpret experimental results.
• Collaborate with internal and external research teams to define and advance research directions.
• Present research findings and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
• 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
• Employee Discounts
• Relocation Assistance

What This Job Offers

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