Thermochemical Molten Salt Systems Postdoctoral Research Associate

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The Pyrochemistry and Molten Salts Systems Group within the Nuclear Science and Technology (NS&T) Directorate at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate with a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, materials engineering, or related discipline. The primary goal of this work is to gain further insight into the influence of actinides on thermochemical and thermophysical properties of molten salt systems related to molten salt reactors, advanced nuclear fuel cycles, and recovery of critical materials.

The position entails novel research where the postdoc is expected to plan and perform experiments, build experimental apparatus, write scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and present research results at national and international conferences and working groups. The ideal candidate is expected to be a strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and work effectively both alone and as a team member. The candidate must be self-motivated but also work effectively with peers and take direction from other team members.

 

 

Required/Minimum Qualifications:

•   PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years 

•   PhD in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, materials engineering, or comparable disciplines

•   Excellent communication and language skills in English, as evidenced by publications and the cover letter

•   Experimental background in inorganic chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or closely allied discipline

•   Experience with equipment and methods for experimental determination of one or more chemical and thermal properties such as invariant temperatures, solubility, heat capacity, enthalpy, etc. 

•   Competence with principles of fundamental thermochemistry

•   Creative mindset to solve complex problems in a timely manner 

•   Self-motivation to perform research with minimal supervision

•   Excellent teamwork and communication skills 

Desired Qualifications:

•   Experience with high temperature chemical reactions

•   Experience working with radioactive materials

•   Experience with high temperature chemistry such as molten materials

•   Experience with synthesis and purification of fused and molten salts

•   Experience working with air-sensitive materials, such as in inert atmosphere gloveboxes

•   Familiarity with molten salt reactors and/or nuclear fuel cycles

•   Experience participating as a team member for preparation of funding proposals and pursuit of new funding opportunities

•   Ability to obtain a Q-clearance

**Must be able to work in a culturally diverse environment.**