R&D Salt Qualification Scientist/Engineer

Terrestrial Energy•Bryan, TX

About The Position

The Salt Qualification Scientist/Engineer, under the direction of the R&D Director, is primarily responsible for leading the experimental testing and qualification of salts for Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR) applications. This role will focus on designing and implementing rigorous test programs, conducting hands-on laboratory experiments, and performing detailed data analysis to characterize the properties and behavior of salts used in the reactor. The position requires strong experimental and materials testing expertise combined with hands-on laboratory experience, along with the ability to prepare technical documentation to support reactor licensing and operational needs.

Requirements

Master's degree or higher in Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related technical field
5+ years of hands-on experience in experimental research and materials testing, focusing on chemical characterization in high-temperature or molten salt environments
Strong understanding of physical chemistry, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics as applied to molten salts and reactor materials
Practical experience with molten salt chemistry, including corrosion and reactivity studies in high-temperature systems
Expertise in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis (e.g., regression, uncertainty quantification)
Proficiency with data analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Python, MATLAB) for analyzing complex experimental data and developing models
Hands-on experience with thermophysical, chemical, and performance measurements of materials
Knowledge of high-temperature experimental techniques, analytical chemistry, and data acquisition systems (e.g., LIMS)
Familiarity with laboratory safety, chemical handling, and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
Understanding of nuclear quality assurance and experience preparing regulatory documentation (e.g., NRC, DOE)
Experience preparing qualification reports and technical documentation for regulatory submissions, including responses to regulatory inquiries
Proven ability to manage experimental programs, including scheduling, resource allocation, and task prioritization
Strong technical writing skills for scientific reports, regulatory documents, and communication with diverse stakeholders
Ability to present technical data to internal teams, external stakeholders, and regulators
Experience working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams
Ability to mentor junior staff in experimental techniques, data analysis, and project execution
Commitment to staying current with emerging trends in molten salt technology and nuclear safety standards
Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, or other standards in material testing and quality assurance

Nice To Haves

Experience working in nuclear industry or highly regulated environment preferred
Background in reactor materials qualification, fuel qualification, or similar programs highly desirable
Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with regulatory agencies or external auditors
Publication record in peer-reviewed journals is a plus

Responsibilities

Design and implement experimental programs to characterize molten salt properties for IMSR applications, with a focus on material testing, chemical analysis, and long-term performance under reactor conditions
Develop and execute test procedures for thermophysical, chemical, and performance measurements that meet reactor specifications and provide reliable data for reactor qualification
Conduct laboratory experiments to measure critical salt properties, including thermal stability, chemical reactivity, corrosion resistance, and long-term performance. Operate experimental equipment and ensure compliance with safety standards
Analyze experimental data using statistical tools (e.g., JMP, MATLAB, Python), including uncertainty quantification, regression analysis, and data validation. Develop models and correlations to support salt qualification and performance predictions
Oversee quality control for all testing activities, ensuring proper documentation, traceability, and compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., NRC, DOE). Maintain laboratory safety standards in line with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
Prepare technical reports and qualification documents to support regulatory submissions, including responses to NRC inquiries. Present findings to regulatory bodies during audits and meetings
Work closely with reactor design engineers to align test programs with reactor specifications. Collaborate with materials engineers, chemistry teams, and other technical teams to support corrosion, compatibility, and performance studies
Continuously evaluate and improve test methods, experimental setups, and data analysis techniques to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of salt testing programs
Support procurement and vendor qualification processes for salt materials and related supplies
Manage testing schedules, resources, and priorities to meet project milestones. Provide regular updates to the R&D Director and project teams
Provide technical guidance to junior scientists or engineers, assisting with testing and characterization activities
Present experimental results and testing approaches to internal teams, external stakeholders, and regulatory agencies