Responsibilities

The Applied Materials and Manufacturing group is seeking an outstanding researcher with expertise in solid phase processing (SPP) to be part of our team of experts in metals processing and performance. This is an extraordinary opportunity to be part of a world-class, interdisciplinary research program that is pushing the envelope on next generation metals manufacture for a variety of technology applications. PNNL's research in this area seeks to develop manufacturing process solutions and subsequently understand the underpinning physics of microstructural evolution in materials subjected to high strain during synthesis - conditions that are inherent to SPP methods. In addition PNNL seeks to translate that understanding to potential commercial applications in a suite of scalable manufacturing platforms that can deliver materials and components with exceptional performance.

This position will be hands-on with SPP technologies that include friction stir related technologies and additive manufacturing variants, shear-assisted processing and extrusion (ShAPE), and/or cold spray. The position involves working with processing equipment and interfacing with others to perform characterization. The position holder will explore the relationship between processing conditions, microstructure, and performance. The position holder will help develop material- and application-specific processing approaches, protocols, and parameters. The successful candidate can expect to prepare manuscripts for publication, communicate research context and findings internally and externally, and develop new ideas for research.

Spans fundamental materials science to applied materials engineering. Synthesizes and studies the structures and physical/chemical properties of various natural, synthetic, and composite materials including metals, alloys, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, rubber, glass, and combinations of these materials. Studies the structures of materials from atomic to large length scales and performs short- and long-term characterization, modeling, or testing of these materials to understand their behavior and determine ways to improve them or develop new materials with specific properties. Develops individual steps and combined processes for manufacturing, joining, finishing, treating, and strengthening materials. Develops computational models of materials that describe structures, properties, and performance of materials. Specific research areas include physics, chemistry, materials science, materials engineering, glass science, ceramic science, metallurgy, manufacturing and process engineering, corrosion science, and polymer science.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

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

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in friction stir related technologies including processing, extrusion, deposition, and other processes involving high temperature severe plastic deformation.
• Hands-on experience with manufacturing process related machinery.
• Ability to design or modify friction stir tools, fixtures or equipment to support process development. Includes knowledge and capability to use of Solidworks.
• Knowledge or experience in AI for development of materials and manufacturing solutions related to energy and strategic materials applications.
• Experience in or collaboration with others in physical and mechanical metallurgy and corrosion performance of Fe- and Ni-based alloys or other higher melting point materials.
• Experience with automation and robotics.
• Experience with advanced controls and real time quality analysis.
• Knowledge of various electron microscopy techniques and mechanical testing methods.
• Expertise in interpretation and the subsequent analysis of characterization data.
• Internships or other experience in industrial organizations.
• Strong team player and an ability to conduct independent and inter-dependent research. Ability to provide innovative solutions.
• Appropriate analytic, task management, and communication skills (both oral and written) to clearly articulate research objectives and outcomes.
• Ability to perform work with the level of quality and timeliness to meet required project and client expectations.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not Applicable

Additional Information

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.

A security clearance background investigation includes review of your employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with you and your personal references, neighbors, and co-workers to determine trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. The investigation also examines your foreign connections, drug and alcohol use, foreign influence, and overall conduct.