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Postdoc Associate - Synthesis and (Radio)Chemical Separations

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate with a strong background in organic synthesis to develop, characterize, and test new molecules for the chelation and separation of metal ions relevant to isotope production and energy. This position resides in the Chemical Separations Group in the Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), under the mentorship of Dr. Nikki Thiele.

As part of the Chemical Separations Group, you will have the opportunity to work with a multidisciplinary team comprising specialists in organic and inorganic synthesis, coordination chemistry, thermodynamics, laser spectroscopy, materials characterization, chemical separations, computational chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Our cold labs house state-of-the-art instruments including a triple-quad ICP mass spectrometer, single-crystal X-ray diffractometer, potentiometric titrators, and ultrafast laser systems. Our radiochemistry facility boasts 6 hoods and 2 gloveboxes equipped for radiological work, and an array of radioanalytical instruments for the detection of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-emitting isotopes and quantification of radioactive complexes. As part of our research team, you will be responsible for delivering high impact research results focused on advancing the development of novel chelation strategies to selectively bind rare earth elements, alkaline earth elements, and anions, and the application of these chelators in solid-liquid and liquid-liquid separation schemes.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Perform hands-on synthesis and characterization of novel organic compounds to meet project goals
• Use a variety of methods to characterize and evaluate newly synthesized molecular receptors (e.g., TLC, HPLC, potentiometric titrimetry, UV-vis spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction)
• Execute solid-liquid and liquid-liquid separations experiments and evaluate the results using analytical techniques such as ICP-OES and ICP-MS
• Participate in project planning and execution
• Present and report research results at group meetings and national conferences
• Publish scientific results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication 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 equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in chemistry or a related discipline, completed within the last five years

Preferred Qualifications:

• Highly motivated and enthusiastic go-getter with the ability to work independently to drive projects foward
• A strong background in multi-step synthesis of chelators or other organic molecules on the gram scale; isolation/purification techniques (e.g., column chromatography, crystallization, etc.); and characterization methods (e.g., NMR, UV-vis, and FT-IR spectroscopies, mass spectrometry, HPLC, etc.)
• Radiochemistry experience is preferred
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs
• Ability to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates: If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

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. This position is available immediately.

About ORNL

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well‑being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Benefits

• Employee amenities such as on-site fitness
• banking
• cafeteria facilities
• 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
• 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.

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.