Postdoctoral Research Associate - Advanced Reactor Core Materials Characterization

Requisition Id 17144 Overview Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will aid the research staff in understanding the synergistic effects of various degradation phenomena of nuclear reactor fuel cladding and core internal materials. Strong materials characterization skills are required. This position resides in the Fuel Cladding and Core Internals (FCCI) Group in the Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division, Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The FCCI Group applies modern materials science to design, develop, optimize, and test advanced materials that will accelerate the deployment of higher performance nuclear energy systems. As part of our research team, you will assess the viability of accelerated irradiation methodologies as well as subsized mechanical testing methodologies on highly irradiated materials (either using ions or research reactor irradiation data) for establishing performance envelopes for materials to be deployed in advanced reactors. Efforts would in-part utilize the instrumentation and expertise available through the Low Activation Materials Development and Analysis Laboratory (LAMDA). The selected individual will be encouraged to engage with staff within the FCCI group, the Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division and across the laboratory to foster a vibrant research atmosphere to grow capabilities and drive innovation. Metrics for success will include scientific output, disseminating results at national and international conferences and other technical meetings, and delivering on programmatic milestones. Major Duties/Responsibilities Utilize techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for microstructural characterization of materials. Correlate irradiation conditions to the post-irradiation performance of novel materials. Coordinate with hot-cell personnel to collect post-irradiation mechanical property data Perform characterization activities within a radiological laboratory. Participate in the development of new ideas and projects. Present and report research results and publish scientific outcomes 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. Collaborate within a multi-disciplinary research environment consisting of experimentalists, computational scientists, and engineers conducting basic and applied research in support of the Laboratory’s missions. Deliver 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, work together, and measure success. Basic Qualifications A PhD degree in materials science, nuclear, or mechanical engineering, or a related discipline within the past 5 years. Excellent communication skills, including verbal, presentation, and writing skills, are required to enable effective interaction with technical peers and program managers. Applicants must have completed all degree requirements prior to position start. Preferred Qualifications Proficiency with specimen preparation using standard metallography and Focused Ion Beam (FIB) techniques. Proficiency with characterization techniques such as SEM, EBSD, and TEM is strongly preferred. Experience with radiation effects in metals and alloys, with a particular focus on deformation mechanisms, damage-rate, helium effects, and/or stress effects in materials. Familiarity with subsized specimen mec…

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