Requisition Id13256

Overview:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist who will focus on RF plasma sources for plasma-material interactions (PMI) exhibited in plasma devices relevant to the development of materials to enable fusion energy. This position resides in the Diagnostics and Control Group in the Burning Plasma Foundations Section, Fusion Energy Division, Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

As part of our research team, you will make significant contributions to projects involving fusion research, instrumentation of mission-critical systems, and other research projects. The D&C group carries out experiment-based research and development work in support of ongoing science and technology research for the U.S. DOE Fusion Energy Sciences Program in the Office of Science.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop the skills to operate the RF plasma sources (especially helicon antenna) for the Material Plasma Exposure Experiment (MPEX). This includes the instrumentation that will be used to assess the device performance for use in the scientific exploration of materials exposed to high-heat flux plasmas.
• Science area: Investigate the efficiency of launched-RF power to plasma production (density and temperature).
• Conduct research on processes that arise from the interaction of plasmas and material surfaces, for example in the context of plasma facing components located in fusion-relevant research devices, such as the MPEX linear plasma device.
• Build collaborative relationships with international and domestic scientists in support of research to understand the physics of plasma material interactions and to develop viable materials for use in plasma facing components.
• Routinely communicate results of their research in high-impact presentations, reports, conference papers, and key peer-reviewed journals.
• Work with a multidisciplinary team of research scientists and engineers in the areas of fusion energy research to maintain a high level of scientific productivity.
• Ensure a safe and efficient work environment and compliance with ESH&Q procedures and programs.
• Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of professional values and ethics.

Basic Qualifications:

• A Doctoral degree in physical chemistry, plasma physics, atomic physics, electrical engineering, nuclear engineering, or a related discipline and a minimum of 3 years of experience
• A demonstrated history of publication in the area of research.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiearity with diagnostic systems for use in plasma devices is beneficial, eg. Thomson Scattering, TALIF, and other spectroscopic instruments; IR and visible camera imaging; RFEA probes, double Langmuir probes, and surface temperature probes.
• Familiarity with the use of electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, laser induced break-down spectroscopy, nuclear reaction analysis, Rutherford backscattering spectroscpy, low energy ion scattering spectory and other techniques is beneficial.
• 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
• A desire to mentor students and/or early career researchers

Export control, no clearance: 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.

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.

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

• Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
• View Profile
• Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

Benefits at ORNL:

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people. The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.

Other benefits includethe following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan,Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

Nearest Major Market: Knoxville