The Process R&D and Scale Up group in the Applied Materials Division (AMD) has an opening for a postdoctoral researcher to synthesize nano-scale catalyst and ionomer materials for fuel cell and electrolyzer applications. The researcher is expected to use scalable flow reactor technologies or other advanced processing methods to produce high-performing materials. We are seeking candidates who will be able to determine how reactor conditions impact resulting materials and develop methodologies to reliably control particle composition and morphology.

As part of Materials Engineering Research Facilities (MERF), the Process R&D and Scale Up group conducts science-based scale-up of newly invented materials and chemicals by using advanced synthesis and processing protocols, in-situ/operando characterization, and modeling/simulation. The MERF produces kilogram quantities of materials and makes samples available for industrial evaluation, prototyping, and to support further research.

The candidate will work with the group leader and staff scientists in the MERF. The candidate will also interface with collaborators from other laboratories and industry to synthesize, scale-up, and characterize advanced catalysts and conduct electrochemical testing. The candidate is expected to generate technical reports and manuscripts as part of the project.    

Position Requirements

• Ph.D. degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, material science and engineering, or a related field with 0 to 2 years of experience or equivalent

• Demonstrated knowledge in the synthesis of nano-scale materials.

• Prior experience in scale-up and manufacturing processes.

• Experience includes synthesizing precious metal catalysts, alloy or intermetallic platinum group metal (PGM) catalysts, non-PGM catalysts, or ionomers using continuous flow, solvothermal, hydrothermal, spray deposition, or other methods.

• The candidate must have experience characterizing and analyzing nano-scale catalyst materials using imaging, spectroscopic, and electrochemical methods.

• A successful candidate must model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of flow reactor design and process scale-up.

• Experience using analytical tools, such as particle size analyzer, X-Ray diffraction, electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), spectroscopy (FTIR and Raman), surface area analysis, and electrochemical (EIS and RDE).

• Establishing and using in-situ/operando characterization techniques during synthesis.

• Demonstrated experience with safe handling of large quantities of nano-scale materials in the laboratory.

• Highly self-motivated candidate who demonstrates creative and proactive approaches towards scientific problem solving as evidenced by publications and recommendations.

• Proven track record showing the ability to carry out independent and collaborative research in a multidisciplinary team while meeting project deliverables and milestones.

• Skilled oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

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