Molten Salt Electrochemistry Postdoctoral Researcher

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform laboratory-based research and development of electrochemical systems and processes within our Chemical Separations group in the Critical Materials and Geothermal Energy Department. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off. You will report to the Project Investigator.

You will develop and optimize electrochemical systems for a variety of pyrometallurgical/molten salt applications including metallic deposition, electrochemical redox stripping, electrophoretic separations, leaching and electrochemical processing. Knowledge and a working background in electrochemical processes in moderate and high temperature molten salt systems in inert environments is required.
 

Responsibilities:

• You will be a strong asset to an established R&D team to achieve specific project/program targets and goals on multiple projects within the same area of study.
• Autonomous work and collaborative work taking direction from other team members and peers.
• Writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, project reports and proposals, as well as preparing presentations of research results and presenting them at national/international conferences/workshops/meetings.
• Must maintain currency in relevant scientific literature, meet Environment Safety and Health (ES&H) goals, demonstrate a strong commitment to safe laboratory practices, and perform all work in an environmentally safe and compliant manner.
   

Required:

• Ph.D. in Engineering, (e.g., chemical engineering or nuclear engineering (with emphasis on electrochemical studies) or Ph.D. in Physical Sciences (e.g., chemistry, or materials science, or physics). 
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• A developing publication record with demonstrated oral and published written communication skills (in English).
• Demonstrated experience in molten salt electrochemistry, electrodeposition of metals, from fundamental understanding of reduction/nucleation processes to electrochemical engineering and process optimization and production of electrodeposits with desirable composition and material properties.
• Hands-on experience with inert-atmosphere gloveboxes.
• Experience with electroanalytical (CV, CA, CP, EIS) and surface characterization (XRD, SEM) techniques.
   

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience in either electrocatalysis, spectro-electrochemistry, or computational/theoretical analysis.
• Experience in molten salt electrolytic cell design.
• Experience with high vacuum systems 
   

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally move up to 50 pounds using carts/dollies to move equipment into place. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information:

• The pay for this position is $105,144.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information:

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.