Senior Research Scientist - Nuclear Materials and Radiation Effects

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

168d•Onsite

About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a senior scientific leader to advance the science and technology of materials for extreme environments, focusing on the intersection of fusion and fission structural materials, reactor core materials innovation, and expanding nuclear materials research capabilities. This role is within the Radiation Effects and Microstructural Analysis Group (REMAG) of the Materials Science and Technology Division. The selected candidate will collaborate with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and other stakeholders to develop and lead innovative research programs for next-generation nuclear energy technologies. Key responsibilities include advancing research in the Low Activation Materials Development and Analysis (LAMDA) Laboratory and other irradiation and post-irradiation examination (PIE) facilities, and/or expanding theoretical and computational modeling capabilities. The position aims to bridge fundamental and applied research to enable advances in fission and fusion energy systems by studying radiation effects, microstructural evolution, degradation mechanisms, and materials performance in extreme environments. This is an opportunity to enhance ORNL’s national and international leadership in nuclear materials science and technology, supporting the DOE's mission in clean energy, energy security, and scientific discovery.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Nuclear Engineering (with a focus on materials), or a closely related field
A minimum of 10 years of post-Ph.D. research experience in fission, fusion, or accelerator materials, or other materials for extreme environments
A strong record of publications and citations
Demonstrated leadership in scientific research programs, research organizations, or the professional scientific community

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated leadership experience in scientific research, such as serving as a program or project manager, with a record of mentoring early-career researchers, postdoctoral associates, or graduate students
Extensive experience in the post-irradiation examination of radioactive structural or fuel materials, or in the analysis of materials behavior in nuclear reactor environments
Excellent written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by a strong record of publications in high-impact journals and presentations
Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and contribute creatively within collaborative, cross-disciplinary teams across the laboratory
Proven ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities, manage multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to evolving program needs
Ability to obtain and maintain the required security (Q or L) clearance immediately or within a reasonable timeframe

Responsibilities

Establish leadership in scientific research and capability expansion for advanced nuclear materials and radiation effects in materials science.
Directly contribute to the laboratory’s vision of advancing breakthrough fusion and fission energy systems that are pivotal to the nation’s energy future.
Develop new projects and programs by leveraging capabilities in experimental design, complex data analysis, technology and process development, and effective communication of findings through reports and presentations.
Lead advanced research by applying scientific principles to engineer innovative solutions, mentor junior staff, ensure compliance with standards, manage budgets, and collaborate with internal teams and external partners.
Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of organizational values and ethics.
Advance ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace—in how we treat one another, collaborate, and define success.