Research Associate
Brookhaven National Laboratory
About the Role
The Chemistry Division at Brookhaven National Laboratory is seeking a Research Associate for a two-year term appointment in the Electrochemical Energy Storage (EES) Group. This role focuses on advanced battery research through materials development and characterization, with the possibility of renewal.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent and collaborative research on sulfur, sodium, and lithium battery systems.
- Design and synthesize electrode and electrolyte materials.
- Perform electrochemical evaluations.
- Conduct advanced structural and chemical characterization using state-of-the-art techniques.
- Integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) approaches to accelerate materials discovery and data-driven optimization.
- Correlate materials design with physical, chemical, and mechanical properties.
- Coordinate research activities with academic and industrial collaborators.
- Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.
- Present results at scientific conferences and DOE program review meetings.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- A PhD degree in relevant fields (including but not limited to Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Material Science and Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering).
- Industry or research experience (including doctoral research) in rechargeable battery systems.
- Demonstrated research expertise in at least one of the following areas: sulfur, sodium, and lithium batteries, supported by a strong publication record.
- Demonstrated experience applying AI and/or machine learning methods to battery materials development.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills for scientific publications and presentations.
- Must have received a Ph.D. by the commencement of employment.
- Eligible candidates may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position after obtaining their PhD (excluding certain life events).
Preferred Skills
- Experience in synthesis of battery materials.
- Skilled in advanced characterization techniques, including synchrotron, neutron, and electron-based methods.
- Experience in pouch cell fabrication and testing.
Environmental, Health & Safety Requirements
- Lifting of 30 pounds.
- Ability to run a ½ mile.
- Successfully pass a stress test.
- Ability to climb a ladder or more.