Associate Staff Member, Irradiated Nuclear Fuel Characterization

Requisition Id 15045 

Overview:

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Nuclear Fuel Element Performance (NFEP) Group in the Nuclear Fuel Development (NFD) Section within the Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division is looking for a researcher to support design and execution of methods for advanced characterization of irradiated nuclear fuel materials. A successful candidate will leverage their existing expertise in the behavior of nuclear fuels to develop novel concepts for irradiation testing and post irradiation examination. A major focus of this position will include research related to studying the burst behavior of irradiated zirconium alloy cladding and surrogate material.  A successful candidate will leverage existing equipment and develop new techniques to extend characterization capabilities in this area.  This position will also offer the opportunity to become involved in research on several different fuel forms of interest including conventional ceramic (e.g., UO2- zircaloy), coated particles (e.g., TRISO architecture) and other novel fuel types for a range of applications. Scientific output will be a primary emphasis throughout these activities. The selected individual will function as a colleague in a much larger team comprised of staff from numerous organizations to design, field, and analyze irradiation experiments; strong communication and interpersonal skills will be essential.

 

This position will support several programs including the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy Advanced Fuels Campaign and Nuclear Science User Facility Program on irradiation and post irradiation activities at ORNL.  The selected individual will be encouraged to engage with research staff within the NFEP group, NFD section, and support ORNL organizations to foster a vibrant research atmosphere focused on successful mission execution and continued growth of capabilities and expertise for leading-edge nuclear fuels research.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Perform experimental work in hot-cells and radiological materials laboratories centered on fuel performance characterization of fresh and irradiated nuclear fuel which may include the fabrication of various nuclear fuel compositions including metals, ceramics, and composites.
• Conduct hydrating and oxidation experimental work on Zr alloys and Cr-coated Zr alloy cladding candidates.
• Perform Burst testing irradiated fuel segments and surrogate samples. Perform the post-quench ductility studies of Zr based materials and support mechanical testing of surrogate and irradiated Zr alloy samples.
• Utilize expertise in nuclear fuel performance to design, execute, and analyze new approaches to irradiation and post irradiation examination.
• Work with a diverse team of experts in modeling, property measurement, irradiation design, post irradiation examination, and other relevant areas to advance science-based understanding of nuclear fuels and actinide materials.
• Produce high impact publications and conference presentations in the field of nuclear fuel materials.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
• Perform work according to specific rules and requirements for quality assurance, nuclear material control, radiological work, and general laboratory safety.
• 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 nuclear engineering, materials science, or a related field.
• Strong background in nuclear materials science with a focus on nuclear fuel materials and performance as evidenced by prior work and publications.
• This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.
   

Preferred