Physical Chemist, Spectroscopy and Neutron Scattering- R&D Associate

Requisition Id 14555 

 

­­Overview:  

We are seeking an experienced research staff scientist to join the Chemical Dynamics Group (CDG) within the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This role presents a unique opportunity to lead fundamental and applied research into the physical chemistry and dynamics of advanced materials, directly supporting DOE priorities in energy resiliency and security, energy storage, catalysis, and separations.

 

The successful candidate will provide technical leadership in materials design and advanced characterization, including neutron and X-ray scattering, vibrational spectroscopy, and computational chemistry approaches, to study structure-property relationships under operando and extreme conditions. The research will have broad applications across CO₂ capture and utilization, sustainable materials, energy storage, catalysis, and industrial waste upcycling.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Lead and conduct cutting-edge research using neutron and X-ray scattering, vibrational spectroscopy, and computational modeling to study structure-property relationships and stimuli-response mechanisms toward targeted applications.
• Drive research projects on porous materials, functional carbon-based systems, and catalytic interfaces, aligning with DOE’s priorities in clean energy and decarbonization.
• Support in securing competitive research funding, develop high-impact research proposals, and engage with DOE program managers, industry partners, and external collaborators.
• Publish findings in high-impact journals, deliver talks at major scientific conferences, and provide thought leadership and strategic planning in emerging areas.
• Engage in cross-disciplinary collaborations across ORNL divisions and externally with government agencies, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders.
• Mentor early-career researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, fostering an inclusive and innovative research environment.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning 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.

 

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in Physical Chemistry, Physics, Engineering Science, or a related field.
• A Minimum of 2 years of professional research experience in academia, industry, or national laboratories.
• Hands-on expertise in neutron/X-ray scattering, vibrational spectroscopy, and computational chemistry for materials characterization.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3-5 years of professional research experience in academia, industry, or national laboratories.
• Demonstrated track record of mentoring, securing competitive funding, and building high-impact partnerships with academia and industry.
• Expertise in solid-state chemistry, stimuli-responsive materials, catalysis, and functional carbon-based materials.
• A strong publication record in leading journals and a track record of delivering invited/keynote presentations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary research team environments.

• 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.