The Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division (CSE) at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a Postdoctoral Appointee position focused on advanced battery materials research. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge energy storage research through the design, evaluation, and development of next-generation battery materials and cells.
Under the direction of a supervisor, the successful candidate will conduct applied research on advanced battery materials using electrochemical, structural, and chemical characterization techniques. The appointee will support battery technology research and development by fabricating prototype electrodes and pouch cells in a dry-room environment and by contributing to experimental design, data interpretation, and technical reporting.
This position requires close collaboration with Argonne researchers and external principal investigators to support the timely execution of research programs. Responsibilities also include preparing technical reports, presentations, and peer-reviewed manuscripts; presenting research findings at scientific conferences and sponsor meetings; and contributing innovative concepts and proposals to expand divisional research activities.
Additional responsibilities include maintaining laboratory equipment and facilities, ensuring compliance with Laboratory and Divisional environmental, safety, health, quality assurance (ESH/QA) requirements, engaging with the broader academic and research community, and serving as a technical resource to colleagues within Argonne.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and execute applied research on advanced battery materials using electrochemical, structural, and chemical characterization methods
Fabricate and evaluate prototype battery electrodes and pouch cells in a dry-room environment
Collaborate with internal and external research partners to advance project objectives and meet program milestones
Analyze experimental data and prepare reports, technical presentations, and updates for internal stakeholders, DOE, and industry sponsors
Author manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and present findings at scientific meetings and conferences
Contribute new technical ideas, research concepts, and proposal development to support program growth
Maintain laboratory instruments, equipment, and facilities in support of research operations
Build and maintain active engagement with external academic and scientific communities
Provide technical guidance and problem-solving support to group members and other laboratory staff
Position Requirements
Recent or soon-to-be-completed PhD (within the last 0-5 years) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, and/or Electrochemistry
Demonstrated experience in electrochemical testing and physicochemical characterization of lithium- and/or sodium-based battery cells
Hands-on experience with a range of laboratory instrumentation and characterization tools
Strong ability to design and implement electrochemical experiments and interpret results effectively
Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team-based research environment
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of technical documents and presentations
Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with lithium-ion and/or sodium-ion battery technologies
Familiarity with reference-electrode cell configurations
Experience with electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and other advanced materials and battery characterization techniques
Job Family
PostdoctoralJob Profile
Postdoctoral AppointeeWorker Type
Long-Term (Fixed Term)Time Type
Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $72,879.00-$121,465.00.Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.
Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.
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Skills Required
- PhD (recent or soon-to-be-completed within the last 0-5 years) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or Electrochemistry
- Demonstrated experience in electrochemical testing and physicochemical characterization of lithium- and/or sodium-based battery cells
- Hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation and materials characterization tools
- Experience fabricating prototype electrodes and pouch cells in a dry-room environment
- Strong ability to design and implement electrochemical experiments and interpret results
- Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team-based research environment
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of technical documents and presentations
- Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
- Experience with lithium-ion and/or sodium-ion battery technologies
- Familiarity with reference-electrode cell configurations
- Experience with electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and other advanced materials and battery characterization techniques
What We Do
Argonne National Laboratory, one of the U.S. Department of Energy's national laboratories for science and engineering research, employs 3,400 employees, including 1,400 scientists and engineers, three-quarters of whom hold doctoral degrees.
