Postdoctoral Research Associate - Synthesis and Characterization of Metal Salts

at  Oak Ridge National Laboratory

OVERVIEW:

The Nanomaterials Chemistry Group within the Chemical Sciences Division at ORNL currently has a postdoctoral position available for an inorganic, analytical, or physical chemist with expertise in molten-salt chemistry for development of new salt systems for NE applications. The primary focus will be synthesis and purification of metal salts and evaluation of their performance. The program will have a strong collaborative component with characterization (e.g. electron microscopy, electrochemical study, neutron scattering) and computational scientists working on the same program.
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will support the Nanomaterials Chemistry Group in the Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• A PhD in inorganic, organic, polymeric, or physical chemistry or a closely-related field, completed within the last five years.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• A strong background in inorganic, analytical, or physical chemistry
• Expertise in standard purification methods and characterization by the standard tools including NMR, FTIR, mass spectrometry, etc.
• An excellent track record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience.
• Motivated and safety conscious.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Able to set priorities, multi-task, and adapt to ever-changing needs as well as the proven ability to function well in a fast-paced environment.

PURPOSE:

As a postdoctoral research associate, you will carry out the preparation and characterization of metal salts for nuclear energy applications. This position resides in the Chemical Sciences Division, Nanomaterials Chemistry Group, in the Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and is a part of the research efforts in a project funded by the DOE’s Office of Nuclear Energy (NE).

MAJOR DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Synthesize and purify metal salts.
• Evaluate electrochemical properties of the above materials.
• Collaborate with ORNL postdocs and staff who are involved in structural characterization.
• Participate in the development of new ideas and projects.
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.