Postdoctoral Research Associate - Geochemistry

Requisition Id 15021 

 

Overview:

We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Material Signatures and Isotopic Standards (MSIS) Group within the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This position is focused on the advancement of high-precision mass spectrometry and innovative chemical methods for isotopic analysis and assays, supporting critical safeguards, nonproliferation, and nuclear programs.

 

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will play a vital role in developing methodologies for nuclear materials analysis and addressing the associated risks and deficiencies. The successful candidate will work at the forefront of nuclear security research, focusing on novel sample introduction systems for solids, liquids, and gases, isotopic analyses, automated throughput analyses, and the production of reference material standards.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Develop front-end introduction systems measurement by ICP-MS or ICP-OES

• Conceive, design, and implement innovative analytical methods chemical analyses using state of the art elemental and isotopic mass spectrometric systems.

• Publish and present research results in professional journals and at scientific conferences

• Collaborate with other group scientists and technical personnel for the development of new research ideas

• 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:

• A PhD in Geology, Chemistry, Geochemistry, Radiochemistry, Cosmochemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field completed within the last 5 years

• Demonstrated experience working with radioactive material

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active Q or L clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance

• Proficiency in separation and digestion methods

• Proficiency in elemental and isotopic measurements using modern mass spectrometry and optical emission spectrometry instrumentation

• Experience with novel sample introduction systems for solid, liquid, and gas samples

• Familiarity with MC-ICP-MS, TIMS, or similar instrumentation and troubleshooting methodologies

• Experience in an ISO17025 accredited laboratory setting and performing data analysis under standard operating procedures

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• 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

 

Special Requirements:

Postdocs:

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

 

Letters of Recommendation:

Please su