Research Associate- Pyrophoric Gas Chemist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

6d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Research Associate who will focus on investigating pyrophoric gases and their reactions. This position resides in the Chemical Dynamics Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), but will involve close (daily) collaborations with scientists/team members across the laboratory. Potential candidates are expected to contribute to the development unique science directions, in collaboration with the Team and sponsoring organizations. Furthermore, the position requires collaborating and interacting with staff at ORNL’s Spallation Neutron Source on Chestnut Ridge, High Flux Isotope Reactor, Computational Sciences centers, National Security Sciences, Energy Science and Technology directorate, and within the Physical Sciences Directorate at ORNL. This position will support the laboratories mission of world leading materials and reaction science and delivering solutions to pressing energy storage problems essential to economic develop and security of the United States.

Requirements

A PhD degree in chemistry, Physics, Materials Science or a related field.
0 to 2 years of experience in pyrophoric reactive molecule chemistry

Nice To Haves

Experience with ceramic and materials synthesis
Experience with vacuum system-based deposition processes
Analytical chemistry background
Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver license within 10 days of arriving to operate DOE vehicles on-site.
An excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals, patents or commercial products
Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience
Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative and frequently interacting teams of researchers
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

Design and deploy reactors for pyrophoric gases
Synthesize molecules and compounds and evaluate their physical properties including but not limited to molecular weight, tensile strength, rheology, and reactivity
Develop processing approaches to turn materials into new shapes and structures
Research high temperature materials for advanced and additive manufacturing in energy applications
Able to perform chemical synthesis of preceramic polymers, organometallics, knowledge of thermoset curing.
Coordinate research with other team members inside and outside ORNL
Design and evaluate special cells required for in situ studies
Work with sponsors to achieve project goals and deliverables
Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
Maintain strong dedication 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. Fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.