Irradiation and Characterization of Fusion Materials - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL•Livermore, CA

About The Position

The Materials Science Division (MSD) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is seeking Postdoctoral Researcher to advance the development of novel complex metal alloys for structural applications (e.g., first wall) in fusion reactors. The successful candidate will focus on light and heavy ion irradiation experiments to investigate fundamental radiation damage mechanisms and their impact on microstructural evolution and resulting properties, with the goal of supporting the design of new advanced alloys with improved survivability under fusion-relevant conditions. This position is based in the Actinide and Lanthanides Science group and will involve close collaboration with the Center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (CAMS) for irradiation studies. In this role you will

Requirements

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Nuclear Engineering, or a closely related field.
Demonstrated experience in radiation damage experiments, ideally including light and heavy ions as well as neutron.
Strong background in advanced materials characterization, particularly microscopy and microanalysis of irradiated materials.
Experience in alloy design, synthesis, and processing of refractory metals.
Excellent analytical and organizational skills.
Proficient verbal and written communication skills as reflected in effective presentations at meetings and a demonstrated strong publication record.
Initiative and interpersonal skills with desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with first wall materials requirements for fusion energy applications.
Experience with tungsten-based and/or vanadium-based alloys.

Responsibilities

Design and execute ion irradiation experiments (light and heavy ions) on refractory metals and alloys at the CAMS.
Develop and characterize novel alloy systems with improved radiation tolerance and mechanical properties.
Employ advanced characterization techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, APT, XRD, nanoindentation) to assess microstructural changes, defect evolution, and mechanical response post-irradiation.
Analyze experimental data, interpret results in the context of fusion reactor environments, and contribute to the understanding of irradiation effects in candidate materials.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across LLNL and external partners, integrating experimental findings with modeling and simulation efforts as appropriate.
Prepare technical reports and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Present research at conferences, seminars, and/or technical meetings.
Maintain rigorous safety and compliance standards in all laboratory activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.