In this position, the candidate will characterize and analyze the behavior of nuclear fuels and structural materials used in current- or next-generation nuclear energy systems and research reactors. The candidate will also focus on supporting the advancement of next-generation novel thin film coatings tailored for high temperature nuclear applications using different techniques such as physical vapor deposition (PVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD), and electrochemical deposition. In addition, the candidate will participate in planning, developing, and implementing research in the area of nuclear materials, and perform experiments at the Argonne Intermediate Voltage Electron Microscope (IVEM), Argonne Tandem LINAC Accelerator System (ATLAS), or the Advanced Photon Source (APS). Furthermore, the candidate will perform post-irradiation examination of the materials from these experiments using focused ion beam and electron microscopy techniques. Overall, the candidate will compare and validate predictions of nuclear material performance characteristics with experimental results and/or alternative benchmark models and evaluate and document the results of analytical activities for presentation to the technical community. Other responsibilities include providing support for the analysis and interpretation of in-reactor post-irradiation examination data, and the preparation of proposals to attract internal/external funding for new projects.

Position Requirements

• Significant working knowledge of materials science principles, theories, and advanced characterization techniques is required.

• Demonstrated skill in the conception, design, and evaluation of innovative approaches and solutions to quantitative problems is required.

• Skills in the use of computers and in the analysis of computational results, in the clear and effective documentation and communication of results, and in interaction with co-workers and support personnel are required.

• Demonstrated experience in transmission electron microscopy is required.

• Experience in focused ion beam, other electron microscopy techniques, and X-ray techniques such as diffraction, scattering, tomography, fluorescence, etc. is a plus.

• Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

• To perform the essential functions of this position successful applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, which is required to comply with federal regulations and contract. Illegal drug testing as defined in 10 CFR 707.4 and a background investigation will be required prior to employment.

This level of knowledge is typically achieved through a formal education in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or associated field at the Ph.D. degree level & 0 years’ of professional experience.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Talent Recruitment Programs, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne’s Legal Department.

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As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, Argonne encourages minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment. Argonne considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.  

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis.  Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements.  Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

Please note that all Argonne employees are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19. All successful applicants will be required to provide their COVID-19 vaccination verification as a condition of employment, subject to limited legally recognized exemptions to COVID-19 vaccination.