Senior Nonproliferation Data Scientist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

26d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Senior Nonproliferation Data Scientist to join the Data Science and Engineering for Nonproliferation Group in the National Security Sciences Directorate. In this role, you will lead the development and application of physics-informed data science and machine learning approaches to support nuclear nonproliferation missions. The successful candidate will serve as a senior researcher and technical leader, managing complex research efforts, developing new research initiatives, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver impactful science and technology solutions for national security sponsors.

Requirements

PhD in data science, mathematics, physics, or engineering with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, or MS in these areas with a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience.
Demonstrated experience conducting and leading data science or machine learning research in scientific or national security applications.
Experience leading or contributing to complex research projects and delivering results to sponsors or stakeholders.
Experience presenting scientific results to technical and sponsor communities.

Nice To Haves

Expertise in machine learning, AI, statistical modeling, or physics-informed data science methods.
Knowledge of nuclear nonproliferation mission areas, including safeguards, facility monitoring, arms control, or nuclear fuel cycle analysis.
Demonstrated experience in research proposal development and sponsor engagement.
Experience mentoring junior researchers or leading multidisciplinary research teams.
Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, or similar.
Experience working with DOE National Laboratories, federal sponsors, or comparable R&D organizations.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute complex R&D efforts applying data science, machine learning, and statistical methods to nuclear nonproliferation challenges including nuclear material detection, characterization, and nuclear fuel cycle analysis.
Plan and manage research projects, providing technical leadership and ensuring high-quality delivery of sponsor-funded research.
Develop new research proposals, white papers, and program development activities, engaging sponsors and collaborators across government, academia, and national laboratories.
Mentor and guide junior researchers and technical staff, contributing to the growth of the research team.
Disseminate research outcomes through technical reports, publications, presentations, and engagement with the scientific community.
Serve as a technical point of contact with internal and external collaborators and represent ORNL in relevant professional forums.
Ensure all work is performed safely and securely and complies with ORNL policies and procedures.
Collaborate across ORNL to leverage laboratory capabilities and advance mission outcomes.