Requisition Id 10381 

Overview: 

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will support the Deposition Science and Technology Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The Postdoctoral Research Associate will contribute to the development of modeling frameworks and support process development for advanced manufacturing of near net shape parts from powder feedstock (e.g., binder jet additive manufacturing (AM), powder metallurgy hot isostatic pressing (PM-HIP), etc.).  A strong background in mechanical behavior of materials is required.  Demonstrated experience in the implementation of nonlinear constitutive models in commercial finite element (FE) codes is required.  You will be expected to collaborate with research staff and industry partners focused on experimental materials processing via binder jet AM and PM-HIP, and to assist with process optimization through computational modeling.

As part of our research team, you will engage with researchers with various backgrounds (e.g., materials science, mechanical behavior of materials, heat transfer) and interact closely with industry partners. These engagements will play a vital role in ensuring success of programs and the adoption by project sponsors, and in developing your network across academia and industries. You will also be involved in proposal writing with our scientists while taking the lead in publishing high impact papers.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Participate in the development and implementation of a modeling framework for manufacturing near net shape components via binder jet AM and PM-HIP.
• Participate in the development of constitutive model(s) for binder jet AM and PM-HIP and implement them into finite element (FE) codes for use into process optimization studies.
• Collaborate within a multi-disciplinary research environment consisting of computational scientists, experimentalists, and engineers conducting basic and applied research in support of the Laboratory’s missions.
• Present and report research results at workshops and conferences and publish key findings in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements per ORNL’s Standards-Based Management System (SBMS).
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of institution values and ethics.
• Support senior staff in the development and execution of projects that provide valued and timely deliverables to the various stakeholders.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field completed within the last 5 years
• A background in mechanical behavior of materials
• Experience in the development and implementation of constitutive models within commercial finite element software, e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated expertise in multi-physics FE simulations.
• Demonstrated expertise in using machine learning and optimization frameworks in conjunction with FE simulations to assist with component and/or process design.
• Excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• 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.

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 for up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and the availability of funding.

Moving can be overwhelming and expensive. UT-Battelle offers a generous relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions. If invited to interview, be sure to ask your Recruiter (Talent Acquisition Partner) for details.

For more information about our benefits, working here, and living here, visit the “About” tab at jobs.ornl.gov.

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.