Postdoctoral Researcher Composites Manufacturing and Characterization

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Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory conducting multidisciplinary research in computing, AI, energy, materials, nuclear science, neutron science, isotopes, and national security.

Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States
About Oak Ridge National Laboratory

ORNL is a government-owned, contractor-operated U.S. Department of Energy research laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. UT-Battelle operates ORNL for DOE; the laboratory currently provides AI and high-performance-computing capabilities alongside science and engineering research infrastructure.

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Skills

Candidate Availability

Required and preferred rules are kept separate and reflect the wording in the original posting.

About the Role

You will develop and optimize composite materials and manufacturing processes, from benchtop to pilot scale. You will design and execute characterization experiments, analyze material formulations, manage multiple research projects, report progress, and publish peer-reviewed findings.

Requirements

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial and/or Systems Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, or a related discipline obtained within the last five years
  • Ability to work safely and effectively in a multidisciplinary R&D environment
  • Excellent written and oral English communication skills
  • Complete all degree requirements before starting the appointment
  • Obtain and maintain required identity credentials and pass a federal background investigation

Responsibilities

  • Perform composites manufacturing using compression molding, injection molding, and additive manufacturing
  • Operate DSC, FTIR, TGA, DMA, TMA, XRD, rheology, twin-screw extruders, and electron and optical microscopy
  • Design and execute experiments to characterize innovative materials
  • Publish multiple peer-reviewed journal articles each year
  • Prioritize multiple research projects to meet deliverables
  • Report project status to research staff and sponsors
  • Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality requirements

Benefits

  • Medical plans
  • Retirement plans
  • Flexible work hours
  • On-site fitness facilities
  • On-site banking facilities
  • On-site cafeteria facilities
  • Prescription drug plan
  • Dental plan
  • Vision plan
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Contributory pension plan
  • Life insurance
  • Disability benefits
  • Vacation and holidays
  • Parental leave
  • Legal insurance with identity theft protection
  • Employee assistance plan
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Health savings accounts
  • Wellness programs
  • Educational assistance
  • Relocation assistance
  • Employee discounts