Requisition Id13262

Overview:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on the synthesis of doped semiconducting polymers for use in multilayer conductive devices. This position resides in the Soft Materials and Membranes Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy Office of Science national laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security.

The research will focus on developing multilayer semiconducting polymer films, involving all aspects of monomer and polymer synthesis, small molecule and polymer characterization, film preparation by solution casting or layer-by-layer deposition, and thermomechanical testing on the synthesized polymeric materials. Additionally, based on property characterization and evaluations, polymer compostions will need to be modified and optimized through manipulation/alteration of functionality, topology and/or degree of polymerization. The ability to adjust chemistry to achieve control and optimization of interfacial reactions and transport properties between different types of layers (polymer and non-polymer) will also be critical. In this position, the postdoc will work as part of an interdisciplinary team working towards the development of novel conductive devices. The postdoc is expected to lead these synthesis and characterization efforts while integrating with technical support staff and expert collaborators in materials science, computational modeling, and application subject matter experts. They will also design and execute laboratory experiments, analyze quantitative data, write, and communicate results to our sponsors and the scientific community.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Synthesize monomers and other building blocks for semiconductive polymers
  
• Syntheize semiconductive polymers by step-growth or chain-growth polymerization
  
• Characterize polymer mechanical and viscoelastic properties
  
• Assist in the regular cultivation of data and report writing for sponsors
  
• Ensure that project milestones are met in a timely manner
  
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
  
• Present research results at national scientific meetings
  
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
  
• Take a position of leadership for day-to-day laboratory operations
  
• Participate in project planning and execution
  
• Work with staff to develop new proposals
  
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
  
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success
  

Basic Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering or closely related fields
  
• Expertise in organic/polymer synthesis and characterization methods
  
• Applicants cannot have received the most recent degree more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge and expertise in multi-step organic synthesis
  
• Knowledge and expertise in air-sensitive chemistry and the related laboratory tenchiques
  
• Knowledge and expertise in controlled/living polymerization
  
• Knowledge and expertise in mechanical and viscoelastic characterization of polymers
  
• Knowledge and expertise in polymer processing and manufacturing
  
• Experience generating and analyzing large datasets
  
• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently, safety conscious, and participate creatively in solving problems and refining projects' directions
  
• An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals
  
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and interact effectively with a broad range of colleagues
  

For additional information, contact Dr. Jeff Foster ( fosterjc@ornl.gov ).

Special Requirements:

• Postdocs: 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.
  
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of reference are required and can be uploaded to your profile or emailed directly to PSDrecruit@ornl.gov. Please include the title of the position in the subject line.
  
• Visa Sponsorship:Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  
• 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.
  

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.

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