Job Details

Postdoctoral Researcher in Synthetic Chemistry and Electrochemistry Systems

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a postdoctoral researcher with our Chemical Systems Group in the Energy and Environment Science and Technology Directorate to perform laboratory-based research and development primarily coalescing the areas of synthetic chemistry, electrochemistry, and separations chemistry. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off. The postdoctoral researcher will demonstrate fundamental concepts of chemistry wherein:

Synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry will be leveraged to develop various organic and metal-organic molecular/supramolecular systems and nanostructured materials.

Electrochemistry will be leveraged to develop various thin-film metal coatings and surfaces.

Separations chemistry will be leveraged to extract, purify, and recover ions, molecules, and materials from a complex non-conventional aqueous and non-aqueous feed solution.

The postdoctoral researcher will work independently under the mentorship of an INL Staff Chemical Scientist to achieve specific time-sensitive programmatic milestones, quantified target metrics, and deliverables while operating within a larger scientific team.

Responsibilities include:

• Demonstrate novel research ideas and scholarly merits in overcoming technical challenges.
• Maintain currency in laboratory notebook and scientific literature.
• Present and discuss results with the mentor on a regular basis.
• Help the mentor in preparing project reports, peer-reviewed publications, and proposals.
• Represent INL through program reviews and technical presentations at conferences.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to INL's environmental safety and hygiene principles.

Minimum requirements:

• PhD in Chemistry in one of the following experimental areas in the specific order of preference: Synthetic organic/inorganic/supramolecular chemistry > materials chemistry > electrochemistry > separations chemistry.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Direct hands-on experience in organic and inorganic synthesis of single molecules, coordination complexes, pi-conjugated nanostructured materials, metal coatings and their characterization through molecular spectroscopy and advanced microscopy techniques.
• Direct hands-on experience in standard operations of synthetic 'wet chemistry' laboratories.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.
• On-site position in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Preferred experience:

• Hands on experience in aqueous or non-aqueous electrochemistry (e.g., voltammetry, metal redox chemistry, electrodeposition, electro-hydrometallurgy, etc.).
• Due to sensitive project requirements, this position may require U.S. citizenship or national, U.S. permanent residency (i.e. current Green Card holder).

The salary for this position is $101,196. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Physical requirements while performing the duties of this classification include standing, walking, sitting, stooping, kneeling, bending, and working in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally move up to 50 pounds using carts/dollies to move equipment into place. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits and relocation:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.