Solid Oxide Electrochemical Cells Postdoctoral Research Associate

About the Role

Idaho National Laboratory is seeking one or more postdoctoral researchers in the hydrogen and electrochemistry department to perform laboratory experiments for solid oxide cells at elevated temperatures. The team works a 9x80 schedule located out of the Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

Key Responsibilities

• Hands-on laboratory collection and interpretation of data.
• Document preparation (reports, peer-review journal articles, etc.).
• Preparation and presentation of results and interpretations to internal and external communities.
• Propose new research concepts and work with team members to write and submit proposals for new work.
• Remain current with the literature in their technical area.
• Read, review, and comment on safety documentation.
• Maintain an orderly workspace in accordance with pertinent laboratory best practices and procedures.

Requirements & Tech Stack

The position requires knowledge and experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Ceramic oxygen conductor R&D: Preference on fundamental understanding of solid-state physics or defect chemistry as well as the electrochemical characterizations on materials properties.
• Electrochemical system and test facility development: Include P&ID design, HAZOP/safety analysis, drafting controls and alarms documents, work control documentation development.
• Electrocatalysis: High temperature system with heterogeneous catalysis skills. Expertise in CO2 hydrogenation and/or N2 reduction is preferred.
• Ceramic cell fabrication, and manufacturing: Expertise with conventional ceramic engineering, additive manufacturing, spray coating, 3D printing and extrusion is a plus.
• Electrochemical cell/stack testing and characterization testing: Ideally fuel cell, electrolysis, co-electrolysis.

The position requires expertise in laboratory techniques such as:

• Impedance Spectroscopy
• GC/MS
• Temperature programmed experiments
• Other common characterization methods for in-line measurements.

The candidate will be required to communicate effectively with team members, mentor, and INL management. The expectation is that the person will be highly motivated and a self-starter, but also be capable of working well and efficiently in a highly team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• PhD requirements in chemical engineering, material science and engineering, mechanical engineering, electrochemistry, chemistry, or related disciplines must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills (in English).