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Postdoctoral Research Associate - Separations Chemistry

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 in the area of separations science who will support the Emerging Isotopes Research Group in the Radioisotope Science & Technology Division (RSTD), Isotope Science & Engineering Directorate (ISED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  In this role you will synthesize and characterize small organic compounds used in the separation of metals followed by testing via liquid-liquid or solid-liquid separation methods.
 
The Emerging Isotopes Research Group is responsible for the development and evaluation of advanced radioisotope separation techniques to be applied toward efficient and cost-effective radioisotope production. RSTD is a global leader in actinide science, delivering innovations in isotope production technology, enabling ORNL to produce and rapidly deliver radioisotopes for science, medicine, industry, and security.
 
Major Duties/Responsibilities: 
  • Perform hands-on synthesis of small organic compounds and characterization (e.g., by NMR)
  • Conduct experimental testing of metal extraction capabilities using liquid-liquid and solid-liquid separation systems
  • Implement experimental approaches, perform complex chemical separations, execute the necessary analysis, interpret experimental results
  • Participate in project planning and execution
  • Publish innovations, findings and reports in relevant conferences, journals and symposia.
  • Participate in project reviews, including presenting to internal and external technical review committees.
  • Ensure compliance with Environment, Safety and Health (ES&H) and QA requirements.
  • As a member of the ORNL scientific community, you will be expected to commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct. Our full code of conduct, and a statement by the Lab Director's office can be found here: https://www.ornl.gov/content/research-integrity
 
Basic Qualifications:
  • A PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field with an emphasis in radiochemistry and/or organic synthesis or a related field completed within the last 5 years
  • Evidence of experience in experimentation, data analysis, and interpretation through peer-reviewed publications
  • Experience in small molecule characterization, i.e., nuclear magnetic resonsance, infrared, and ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy, etc.
  • This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license
 
Preferred Qualifications:
  • A demonstrated ability and hands-on experience with safe handling of highly radioactive samples is desired
  • Research relevant to radioisotope production, f-element science, or chemical separations
  • Research in the application of advanced separations, applied to inorganic and or radiological systems
  • Experience with data analytics, specifically handling of large, complex data sets to understand observed phenomena
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory 
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs
 
Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be for up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and the availability of funding.
 
Moving can be overwhelming and expensive. UT-Battelle offers a generous relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions. If invited to interview, be sure to ask your Recruiter (Talent Acquisition Partner) for details.

For more information about our benefits, working here, and living here, visit the “About” tab at jobs.ornl.gov.
 
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.