ResponsibilitiesThe Nuclear Material Processing (NMP) group at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is seeking an Earth or Materials Science Post-Doctoral Researcher to join a team of multidisciplinary scientists and engineers working to strengthen national security and advance nuclear science. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience and demonstrated knowledge of cathodoluminescence spectroscopy (electron or optical microscopy based) applied to a variety of material types (e.g., silicates, semiconductors, etc.). Additionally, the candidate should have demonstrated experience with relevant material characterization tools (e.g., Raman Spectroscopy, X-Ray Fluorescence). Experience with micro-beam solid sampling techniques like electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) or laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is desired but not required. Experience working in radiological fume hoods and gloveboxes is also desired but not required. Experience in metallographic sample preparation, electropolishing, ion polishing, any other electron microscopy techniques, and film deposition methods, especially magnetron sputter deposition, are all desired but not required.
The successful candidate will work with senior team members as a contributor to the broad program of NMP group research. The candidate's contributions will derive from their ability to propose technical alternatives on existing projects and efforts, ultimately leading to the development of new proposal concepts. The candidate will work independently to complete recurring assignments and define/lead project work at a small task/project level, reporting results to the larger team on time and within budget. They will be expected to contribute to proposals as well as embrace expectations for quality, safety, and security in all aspects of the job.
The Earth/Materials Science Post-Doctoral Researcher will be responsible for applying advanced knowledge of spectroscopic techniques to investigate the electronic and vibronic properties of both natural and synthetic materials. The candidate will be responsible for investigating, synthesizing, and developing analytical methods and standard analytical protocols. Specific research areas include chemistry, materials science, nuclear materials, earth materials, ceramic science, and corrosion science.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
- Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.
- Degree in Earth Science, Materials Science, Chemistry, or other related field
Preferred Qualifications:
- Degree in Earth Science, Materials Science, Chemistry, or other related field
- Experience in characterization of materials using optical- or electron microscopy-based cathodoluminescence
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Demonstrated experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at scientific conferences
- A demonstrated ability to work individually and as a team member
- Experience with electron and optical microscopy techniques for materials characterization
- Experience with solid state materials characterization and method development (micro-Raman, XRF, EPMA, LIBS)
- Experience with radioactive materials and nuclear science/technology
- Experience with radiological fume hoods and gloveboxes
- Experience with thin film deposition methods, especially magnetron sputter deposition
Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentThe incumbent must be able/willing to work with hazardous chemicals and radioactive materials.
Additional InformationThis 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.
Note: Applicants will be considered ineligible for security clearance processing by the U.S. Department of Energy if non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for 12 months cannot be demonstrated.
Testing Designated PositionThis position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP). The candidate selected for this position will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with the Controlled Substances Act and the PNNL Workplace Substance Abuse Program.
Rockstar RewardsEmployees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, 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 401 (k) savings plan with company match*. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.
* Research Associates excluded.
**All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.
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Notice to ApplicantsPNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual's relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.
As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.
Minimum SalaryUSD $69,000.00/Yr.
Maximum SalaryUSD $119,100.00/Yr.
