Post Doctorate RA – Actinide Science: Join Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in Richland, Washington, as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Actinide Science. Contribute to national security by advancing capabilities in actinide science, supporting non-proliferation, nuclear forensics, and international nuclear treaty monitoring. Engage in hands-on laboratory work within the Radiochemical Processing Laboratory (RPL) and collaborate with the Actinide Analysis Team in the National Security Directorate.
Designation: Research Associate (RA)
Research Area: Actinide Science
Location: Richland, Washington
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Minimum Qualifications: Must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.
- Preferred Qualifications: A Ph.D. in Post Doctorate RA – Actinide Science Research portfolio in inorganic, organometallic, or materials syntheses or radiochemistry. Experience with lanthanide or actinide chemistry. Proficiency in optical spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction, and a track record of experimental work evidenced by peer-reviewed publications.
Job Description:
The Post Doctorate RA will work within the Radiochemical Processing Laboratory (RPL), conducting cutting-edge research on actinides and radiological or nuclear materials. Responsibilities include the synthesis and characterization of lanthanide and actinide-containing compounds, frameworks, and materials. This involves wet chemistry and solid-state approaches for generating crystalline families of small-molecule complexes and solid-state materials.
Material characterization techniques include X-ray diffraction (powder and single crystal), optical spectroscopy (absorbance and time-resolved photoluminescence), and vibrational spectroscopy (Raman and FTIR). The role emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, team collaboration, data processing, interpretation, and dissemination of results through publications and presentations.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates must submit a complete application by 28 December 2023 (5:00 PM PST). Applications must include:
- Cover letter indicating availability to start.
- CV.
- List of peer-reviewed publications.
- Academic diplomas (Ph.D. – in English).
- Contact information for two academic references.
Submit all materials as one PDF file through the online application form using the provided link.
Last Date for Apply: 12/28/2023 (5:00 PM PST)
Responsibilities and Qualifications
| Responsibilities | Qualifications |
|---|---|
| Hands-on laboratory work in the Radiochemical Processing Lab | PhD received within the past five years or within the next 8 months |
| Synthesis and characterization of lanthanide and actinide compounds | Preferred PhD in inorganic, radiochemistry, or physical sciences |
| Material characterization techniques (X-ray diffraction, spectroscopy) | Research portfolio in inorganic, organometallic, or materials syntheses |
| Data processing, interpretation, and result dissemination | Experience with lanthanide or actinide chemistry |
| Team collaboration and publication of results | Proficiency in optical spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction, and experimental work |
About PNNL:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a leading research institution committed to values such as Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Located in Richland, Washington, PNNL offers an exciting research environment, excellent benefits, and opportunities to work on impactful science and innovations for the U.S. Department of Energy.
Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment Opportunity:
PNNL is dedicated to a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applicants of all backgrounds to apply. The laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.
Mandatory Requirements:
This position requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance. Applicants must undergo a Federal background investigation and meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. Drug testing is mandatory for all Security Clearance positions.
Rockstar Rewards:
PNNL offers a range of benefits, including medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, health savings accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance, employee assistance programs, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, fertility support, and retirement plans.
Note: Research Associates are excluded from certain benefits.
Mandatory Requirements:
Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.
Drug Free Workplace:
PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs. Pre-employment and random drug testing are required.
For assistance or accommodations due to a disability, contact careers@pnnl.gov.
