Research and Development Associate, Verification Technologies

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

153d

About The Position

The Research and Development Associate specializing in Verification Technologies will lead development of safeguards verification technologies for international nuclear safeguards and technical analyses related to nuclear nonproliferation, particularly in advanced reactor domains. The position is in the Verification Technologies Group of the Nonproliferation Engineering Science and Technologies Section, Nuclear Nonproliferation Division, National Security Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The group develops verification technology solutions for monitoring nuclear materials and facilities in domestic accountancy, IAEA safeguards, bilateral arms control treaties, and national security initiatives. Its work includes radiation inspection systems, advanced reactor safeguards and fuel cycles, and technologies for inspectors, including systems deployed by the IAEA. The associate will support research and development from proof of concept through implementation and testing, working with ORNL colleagues and external partners. The role requires a strong safety culture and alignment with ORNL’s values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Requirements

MS or PhD in nuclear engineering, physics, applied science, mechanical or electrical engineering, computer science, or a related technical field.
At least 2 years of relevant experience, or equivalent education and experience, in one or more of nuclear engineering, international nuclear safeguards, nuclear nonproliferation, modeling and simulation, or technology development.
Knowledge of international nuclear safeguards and nuclear nonproliferation principles.
Ability to work independently on technical assignments, apply standard methods to solve problems, and deliver quality work on schedule.
Experience producing clear technical documentation and communicating results to project teams.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment and follow established procedures, including safety and security procedures in laboratory or field settings.
Must be qualified to access export-controlled technology without an export control license.
Visa sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with international nuclear safeguards concepts, such as IAEA safeguards, nuclear material accountancy, or verification approaches for nuclear fuel cycles and advanced reactors.
Experience conducting independent and collaborative research in verification technologies supporting international nuclear safeguards.
Self-motivation and skill in both independent work and collaborative team environments.
Working knowledge of domestic nuclear material control and accounting, international nuclear safeguards, and arms control treaty verification practices and technologies.
Experience working with or collaborating with DOE National Laboratories or similar R&D organizations.
Experience with data analysis and scientific programming, and/or modeling and simulation tools used in nuclear nonproliferation applications.
Experience supporting experiments, technology demonstrations, or field deployments.
Contributions to conference papers, journal articles, or technical reports as part of a team.
Interest in professional development toward greater technical leadership and broader project responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Advance global nuclear nonproliferation through scientific research and technology development.
Support senior technical staff in designing, developing, testing, and documenting safeguards and verification technologies.
Conduct technical analyses independently and with research teams, especially concerning advanced reactor technologies.
Complete assigned technical tasks and solve well-defined technical problems using established methods and procedures, with guidance from project leadership as needed.
Assist in developing and evaluating measurement concepts, algorithms, prototypes, and experimental setups, including radiation detection and measurement systems, inspector-use tools, and data analysis workflows.
Analyze data; develop and document code, models, or analysis tools as appropriate; and contribute to interpreting results.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across ORNL and external partners under project leadership.
Conduct research and development from proof of concept through technology implementation and testing.
Support laboratory and field testing by preparing test plans, executing procedures, troubleshooting, and maintaining documentation.
Prepare technical deliverables, including internal documentation, test reports, sponsor briefings, publications, and presentations.
Contribute to proposal and program development.
Maintain a strong safety culture and uphold ORNL’s core values.
Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace.