Research Scientist Synchrotron Studies of Materials for Energy Applications - Brookhaven National Laboratory
Upton, NY
About the Job
Brookhaven National Laboratory’s Nuclear Science and Technology Department conducts research and development related to nuclear technologies (reactors and accelerator-driven systems), nuclear materials characterization under extreme environments, reliability and risk assessment, and advanced modeling techniques for reactor simulation and energy systems. The Department serves as a resource in these and related areas to support the missions of the Department of Energy (DOE), the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), and other national and international organizations. With a world-class staff of professionals with expertise in a broad range of areas related to the design and analyses of commercial, research and advanced nuclear systems, Brookhaven’s capabilities and facilities are also available to support and execute experiments in support of these missions.
The research focus of Materials for Energy Applications (MEA) group is to inform design of next generation materials by generating mechanistic insights via multi-modal studies of materials degradation and structure-property relationships in extreme environments. The group aims to develop and validate a new synchrotron capability to enable rapid, non-destructive structural and chemical characterization of microparticle test materials using a combination of synchrotron-based 3D X-ray imaging, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques.
The MEA group has an opening for a research staff scientist, who will be part of a team using synchrotron x-ray methods to study materials interactions in extreme environments – high temperature, corrosion, and radiation environments.
The research staff scientist will participate in the synchrotron studies of materials for nuclear and energy storage applications using X-rays to study microstructure using 3D x-ray imaging methods and composition using x-ray fluorescence. The selected candidate will work on multi-modal approaches to correlate findings from 3D X-Ray imaging, XRF and XRD and gain fundamental understanding of changes in materials structure and performance under extreme environments. Materials of interest include materials for energy applications including but not limited to nuclear reactors, energy storage and nuclear forensic applications. This position has a high level of interaction with an international and multicultural scientific community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Develop synchrotron-based nondestructive analysis methods for materials for energy applications. Perform synchrotron experiments (3D X-ray imaging, diffraction and fluorescence) on materials for energy applications
Design, develop, commission, and utilize sample holders for synchrotron experiments
Participate with the research team in translating the experimental results into new scientific knowledge using advanced data analysis techniques
Analyze the multi-modal synchrotron data and disseminate the conclusions in scientific publications and talks. Perform experiments at the beamline including synchrotron characterization of radioactive materials and perform synchrotron data analysis
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ph.D. in engineering, physics, material science or a related field
Minimum of two (2) years post PhD relevant full-time experience
Experience with operation of scientific instrumentation for materials characterization
Experience with experimental design
Basic experience with at least one or more of the following techniques are required: 3D X-ray imaging, X-ray Fluorescence, and X-ray diffraction
Strong analytical and computational skills are required for data analysis
Ability to work in a team environment and self-motivated
Demonstrate an ability to work independently within broadly defined research directions, and to collaborate between research areas.
Clear and concise communication skills and demonstrated ability to write clear, well documented reports and papers for publication and make effective presentations at technical meetings
Experience collaborating effectively in interdisciplinary teams, in both leadership and supporting roles
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Publications on utilizing synchrotron techniques for material science
Knowledge of programming languages, such as Python, and experience in advanced data analysis software and techniques
Experience with other characterization techniques and microscopy (TEM, SEM, and sample preparation) is desirable.
Experience in handling radioactive materials
Ability to obtain security clearance
Environmental, Health & Safety Requirements:
Must be willing to handle small quantities of radioactive material.
OTHER INFORMATION:
Some travel (domestic and international) may be required including occasional travel to synchrotron sources for collecting data.
Occasional shift and weekend work for supporting x-ray data collection
This is a fully onsite position based at BNL.
Brookhaven Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $101200 - $123467 / year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.