The Postdoctoral Appointee will be part of an R&D team conducting use-inspired research supporting the development of materials related to molten salt reactors, pyrochemical treatment of used nuclear fuel, and corrosion abatement. The activities associated with this position may include:

• Preparing and performing physical and chemical measurements with materials in aqueous or molten salt environments that may contain actinides and lanthanides.

• Conducting chemical and electrochemical tests to elucidate corrosion mechanisms and measure corrosion kinetics; developing advanced models for predicting long-term degradation based on the corrosion processes; and modifying material formulations to improve performance.

• Performing laboratory tests and electrochemical operations within controlled atmosphere gloveboxes.

• Operating and maintaining a scanning electron microscope

• Applying chemical thermodynamic and kinetic theories to understand processes and develop models of material interactions and behavior in aqueous or molten salt environments.

Position Requirements

• Skill in devising and performing experiments, using research equipment and instruments, evaluating test results, and applying statistical analyses and treatment of test data.

• Knowledge of chemical thermodynamics, kinetics, electrochemistry, and high-temperature chemical processes.

• Laboratory skills with high-temperature equipment and controlled atmosphere systems demonstrated through prior research activities that can be applied to the safe handling of hazardous materials.

• Demonstrated good interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

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

This level of knowledge is typically achieved through a formal education in a related field at the PhD degree level with zero to three years of experience or equivalent in the scientific application of this knowledge and practical laboratory experience.

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 contracts. Illegal drug testing as defined in 10 CFR 707.4 and a background investigation will be required prior to employment.

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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.