Research Scientist in Process Modeling and Analysis

Requisition Id 12415 

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, with an extraordinary 80-year history of solving the nation’s biggest problems. We have a dedicated and creative staff of over 6,200 people! ORNL’s decadal vision for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is to cultivate an environment and practices that foster diversity in ideas and in the people across the organization, as well as to ensure ORNL is recognized as a workplace of choice. These elements are critical for enabling the execution of ORNL’s broader mission to accelerate scientific discoveries and their translation into energy, environment, and security solutions for the nation. Come join us as we solve the nation's biggest challenges!

 

Purpose:

This position seeks to fill a research role in chemical processes and energy systems with an expert in computational modeling and simulation theory and application. Preference is given to candidates with expertise in the modeling and cost and environmental impact analysis of chemical processes and systems over a wide range of scales. The successful candidate will conduct research independently but collaboratively primarily in reactor scale modeling and chemical kinetic modeling. Experience with commercial chemical process simulation software (Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD, etc.) and life cycle and sustainability assessment software (SimaPro and Open LCA) will all be considered favorably.  Direct experience modeling semi-continuous or continuous flow biochemical/chemical/electrochemical reactors and working knowledge of conceptual industrial process design will be a positive.

 

Candidates should have a demonstrated record of technical accomplishment in the field of modeling and simulation and defining and implementing research visions that unify and guide the activities of multi-disciplinary researchers. Experience with validation of models and working with experimentalist is also of interest.  The chosen candidate is expected to contribute to major programs in the areas of biomass conversion to fuels and co-products, chemical manufacturing, CO2 capture and utilization, energy storage, critical material separation and other clean energy chemical processes.

 

The position is in the Manufacturing Sciences Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  The successful candidate will opportunities to collaborate with a diverse range of staff across ORNL.  The successful candidate will be expected to serve as the technical communicator to sponsors as well as interface with collaborating scientists at other national labs, industry, and universities. Representative activities include: developing strategies for defining and meeting long term goals relevant to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) programs, engaging DOE sponsors, developing R&D proposals, providing technical and strategic vision and leadership in developing a portfolio of cross-cutting modeling and simulation research by coordinating with a diverse multi-disciplinary team.

 

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 to carry out the research needed to accelerate the delivery of solutions to the marketplace. ORNL is nestled in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with an abundance of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities on the surrounding lakes, rivers, and trails.  Staff enjoy a four-season climate and affordable living in the Oak Ridge/Knoxville area which has a lively music, theater, and restaurant scene.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct pioneering research in modeling and simulation of complex chemical processes including catalyst systems, chemical processes, and biochemical/thermochemical/electrochemical conversion processes for renewable clean energy
• Develop new projects and extended proposals beyond the scope of currently sponsored project(s)
• Possess excellent communication skills and be able to proactively communicate with other scientists/engineers internally and externally to build the teams
• Have a track record of excellent mentorship of postdocs/students
• Be responsible for preparing, presenting, and reporting research results and publishing scientific results in key peer-reviewed journals
• Be responsible for budget planning and management
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation