Responsibilities

The Battery Materials and Systems (BMS) Group within the Energy Processes and Materials Division of the Energy and Environment Directorate at PNNL is currently seeking a Post Doctorate Research Associate to work on the development of electrolytes and materials for lithium and Na-ion batteries. 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 electrolytes for Li and Na battery. The candidate needs to have the ability to perform in-depth research independently and collaborate effectively in a team. Knowledge of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), electrochemistry and materials science and hands-on experience with battery material synthesis, electrolyte screening, cell fabrication and testing are required for the job.

The successful candidate's will work with PM, PI and other senior scientists to advance development of innovative technologies. Collaborate 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 developing, screening and validating electrolytes and electrode materials.
• Conduct ML/AI to accelerate the design of the electrolyte formulations and expend the electrolyte chemical library.
• Conduct and monitor 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, analysis, and internal/external reports.
• Prepare manuscripts for publications and present their work at project reviews and national/international conferences.

Qualifications

Minimum 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.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry or other related fields.
• Synthesis of electrode materials and electrolyte screening.
• A strong background in ML/AI.
• Hands on experience in Li and/or Na battery research are desired.
• 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 cell fabrication, electrochemical testing and characterization techniques, experimental setup and operation.
• Should have strong analytical, task management, and technical communication skills.
• Good written and oral communication skills and an ability to collaborate effectively.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not applicable.

Testing Designated Position

This is not Testing Designated Position (TDP).

Rockstar Rewards

Employees 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 Applicants

PNNL 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 Salary

USD $69,000.00/Yr.
Maximum Salary

USD $119,100.00/Yr.