Biomass Electroconversion Postdoctoral Researcher

The Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science or comparable discipline for the Energy & Environment Science & Technology Directorate. This postdoctoral position will focus on the electrochemical conversion of bio-derived organics, including reactor design and catalyst development. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work in an interdisciplinary team in developing electrolyzer technology that can operate on bio-derived hydrocarbons. Reaction of interest includes a range of oxidation and reduction reactions, along with Kolbe coupling and electrochemical hydrogenation. An emphasis will be placed on electrolysis that can operate using minimally purified fermentation broths and other complex bio-derived feedstocks and will incorporate elements of electrode/catalyst design to maximize selective, conversion, and durability. Cross collaboration within the directorate and with other federal labs is anticipated, along with participation in characterization experiments planned at DOE synchrotron radiation facilities.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

Required:

• PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science or closely related field.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrate research experience in electrocatalysis and/or electrolyzer development.
• Experience in designing, conducting, and interpreting laboratory experiments.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary and multi-institutional team.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.
• This position requires US Citizenship.
  

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience in electrochemical conversion of organic molecules, including both anodic and cathodic chemistries.
• Experience designing/operating flow cells and similar continuous electrochemical systems.
• Experience in catalyst design and synthesis.
• Experience with catalysts characterization methods, including XRD, electron microscopy.
• Experience with synchrotron diffraction and spectroscopy methods, including associated analysis and modeling packages.
• Experience in performing electrocatalysis with complex feedstocks.
• Experience with analytical methods, such as HPLC, GC-MS, NMR, and so on.
• Demonstrate a strong track record of publishing manuscripts, presenting at international conferences, preparing technical reports, and writing proposals.
  

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work 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.

Job Information:

• The pay for this position is $105,144.00 annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information:

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.