Materials Scientist 2

at  Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Overview:
Our expert staff provide multi-disciplinary solutions to complex energy and environmental issues. Key capabilities include science (chemical and mechanical). We employ a systems perspective that includes, discovery technology development and scale-up as well as economic, regulatory, and market acceptance issues necessary for successful technology commercialization. EP&MD focuses on three mission contributions: Clean Fossil Energy, Electricity Infrastructure, & Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
Rockstar Rewards:

Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company funded pension plan and may enroll in our 401k savings plan. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.

• Research Associates excluded.

**Once eligibility requirements are met.
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Responsibilities:
The Battery Materials and Systems (BMS) Group within the Energy Processes and Materials Division of the Energy and Environment Directorate at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is currently seeking an outstanding electrochemist and/or battery scientist to work on the development of aqueous-Zinc, lithium-/sodium-ion battery electrodes/electrolytes. The successful candidate will join a team of over 60 world-class scientists and engineers working on a diverse portfolio of battery technologies. The successful candidate’s primary working scope will be on the design and synthesis of high-performance electrode materials and elecectrolytes for aqueous-Zn, Li-/Na-ion battery using mostly earth abundant elements and the fabrication of pouch/prismatic cells using PNNL’s Advanced Battery Facilities. The candidate needs to have the ability to perform in-depth research independently and collaborate effectively in a team. Knowledge of electrochemistry and materials science and hands-on experience with battery material synthesis, electrolyte screening, pouch cell fabrication and testing are required for the job.

The successful candidate’s will Work with PM, PI and other senior scientists to develop advanced cathode materials or design innovative electrolyte recipes to drive up the performance and lower the cost of aqueous-Zn, Li-/Na-ion batteries. Collaborating with a team of scientists and engineers within or outside of the group to identify and understand the working mechanisms through advanced characterization and theoretical simulation. Specifically, the candidate will:

• Provide technical contribution and leadership through problem-solving, innovation and creativity, which will include screening of various aqueous-Zn, Li-/Na-ion battery electrolytes and electrode materials, scaling-up of materials for pouch/prismatic cells, and Fabrication of multi-layer pouch- and prismatic cells for energy storage application.
• Conduct and monitor state-of-the-art experimentation that adheres to PNNL safety standards, policies, and procedures. Use know-how to help improve overall laboratory safety culture. Demonstrate accurate record keeping of all calculations and experiments.
• Work effectively in a team of senior scientists/engineers and junior researchers/students of diverse background to safely conduct research and accomplish project objectives; receive guidance on new assignments, independently complete recurring assignments, select and develop technical approaches on assignments with oversight on complex problems, develops new ideas for funded research and builds professional reputation both inside and outside of PNNL
• Contribute clear and concise written and oral presentations of data, analysis, and internal/external reports. Prepare manuscripts for publications and present their work at project reviews and national/international conferences.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA and 2 years of relevant experience -OR-
• MS/MA -OR-
• PhD

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in synthesis of high-performance aqueous-Zn, Li-/Na-ion battery electrode materials, electrolyte screening and pouch cell fabrication.
• Ph.D. in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry or other related fields from an accredited college or university.
• A strong background in Li-/Na-ion battery and aqueous Zn batteries research are desired.
• Candidates are preferred to possess excellent problem-solving skills based and thorough understanding of engineering, material science and electrochemistry principles.
• Desire to have demonstrated technical aptitude in a laboratory environment, including pouch cell fabrication, electrochemical testing and characterization techniques, experimental setup and operation.
• The candidate should have strong analytical, task management, and technical communication skills.
• Good written and oral communication skills and an ability to collaborate effectively on a teaming environment are preferred.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment:
Not Applicable.
Additional Information:
Not Applicable.
Testing Designated Position (TDP):
Not a Testing Designated Position.
About PNNL:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, flexible work schedules and telework options. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3-hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.
Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment Opportunity:
Our laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.
Drug Free Workplace:
PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.
If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.
HSPD-12 PIV Credential Requirement:
In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws

Please refer the Job description for details