Postdoctoral Research Associate - Computational Nuclear Engineering

Requisition Id 16149 

 

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) 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. Our diverse capabilities span a broad range of scientific and engineering disciplines, enabling the laboratory to explore fundamental science challenges and conduct the research needed to accelerate the delivery of solutions to the marketplace. 

 

The Radiation Transport and HPC Methods (RTHPCM) Group within the Nuclear Applications Methods and Data Section, Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division at ORNL is seeking candidates to apply for the computational nuclear engineer role. This role is responsible for the development and implementation of methods and numerical algorithms for modeling and simulation of nuclear systems. Computational Nuclear Engineers within the RTHPCM group will work with group, section, and division members and external contributors to engineer solutions for developers, and users of nuclear energy modeling and simulation software.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Develop and implement numerical algorithms in advanced modeling and simulation software related to radiation transport and computational fluid dynamics.
• Conduct performance profiling of existing scientific software to identify bottlenecks and implement strategies for improving computational efficiency.
• Work effectively individually and within a team to engineer software to meet the requirements of projects.
• Communicate effectively the work performed through journal articles, presentations, reports, and code documentation.
• Align behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

 

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Nuclear engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, or a related field completed within the last 5 years. 
• Programming experience including the use of one or more of C/C++, Python, Fortran, Git, and CMake.
• Writing and communication skills and the ability to publish.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience developing software related to the numerical solution of radiation transport (Monte Carlo or deterministic) and/or computational fluid dynamics.
• Experience using one or more scientific computing software libraries (e.g., Trilinos, MFEM, PETSc, MOOSE).
• Experience with shared and distributed memory parallel programming models such as OpenMP and MPI.
• Experience with one more GPU or performance portability programming language (e.g., CUDA, HIP, Kokkos, SYCL).

 

Special Requirements:

• Q Clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.
• Visa sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

 

Relocation:

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.

 

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

 

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behavio