Senior R&D Staff Member - Plasma Material Interactions (PMI) Science Lead

Requisition Id15030

Overview:

We are seeking a Plasma Material Interactions (PMI) Science expert to lead the development of a science program focused on plasma-materials interactions for fusion energy, which will leverage the extensive materials expertise at Oak Ridge National Lab (ORNL), PMI collaborations at fusion facilities worldwide, and ORNL's hosting of the Materials Plasma Exposure Experiment (MPEX). This position will reside in the ORNL Fusion Energy Division (FED), reporting to the Division Director, and include significant interfacing with the Nuclear Structural Materials Group in the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD).

As part of a research team focused on providing solutions to critical issues for practical fusion energy development, the incumbent will carry out and coordinate research focused on developing the science of PMI in the extreme environments anticipated in future magnetically confined fusion energy systems. Research objectives will include understanding the effects of plasma-interactions and other operating environment factors on candidate plasma-facing materials, with specific attention paid to the compatibility and survivability of such materials in future fusion systems. The incumbent will work closely with material science experts in MSTD as well as fusion plasma and divertor experts in FED to develop a coordinated, science-driven plan to understand and resolve key PMI issues for plasma facing materials in fusion applications. Key resources will include existing PMI collaborations on fusion facilities, ORNL's extensive computing capabilities, and world-class materials facilities including MPEX. The incumbent will work with the FED Division Director to motivate the technical rationale and justification for increased investment by DOE in future years.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of the fusion PMI science program at ORNL, working closely with the worldwide fusion community and ORNL material science experts.

• Leverage the capabilities of ORNL including expertise in both plasma and materials science, advanced materials characterization facilities and world-class computing capabilities to develop a world-class PMI science program at ORNL.

• Lead development of research proposals in the area of PMI science.

• Work closely with team members in the areas of fusion materials, fusion blankets, power exhaust, and particle control and other relevant areas to resolve and/or deliver innovative approaches to critical PMI science issues.

• Produce high impact publications in key peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations in plasma material interaction.

• Maintain a high level of scientific productivity.

• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.

• Perform work according to specific rules and requirements for quality assurance, nuclear material control, radiological work, and general laboratory safety.

• Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.

Basic Qualifications:

• Requires a Ph.D. with a minimum of 6 years relevant experience, a M.S. with a minimum of 12 years' experience, or a B.S. with 15 years' experience.

• Qualified candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading R&D teams.

• Scientific productivity demonstrated by a record of lead-authored publications (published, accepted, or submitted).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on experiences in PMI or fusion reactor materials.

• Proven ability to interpret and analyze material behavior under extreme conditions, such as high-temperature plasma bombardment, radiation damage, and transient thermal loads.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Demonstrated technical acumen in the physics of PMI or related areas.

• Background in collaborative research involving multidisciplinary teams focused on materials testing in fusion-relevant environments.

• Familiarity with safety, operational, and technical challenges specific to high-power PMI facilities.

• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.

• An ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

• Ability to motivate and coordinate research staff towards common goals.

• Demonstrated ability to work with research staff (both internal and external) and sponsors to develop a compelling, actionable research plan.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.