Postdoctoral Research Associate

About the Role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the Ceramics and Ceramics Composites (CCC) Group within the Materials Science and Engineering Division (MSTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This role will focus on the development of methods to quantify the shear (yield) strength of monolithic ceramic materials as a function of temperature.

Key Responsibilities

• Use and refine techniques to estimate shear strength based on the brittle-to-ductile transition, hot hardness testing, spherical indentation, and other new methods.
• Develop/refine finite element and numerical analysis models to portray shear strength response as a function of temperature.
• Attempt to reconcile various experimentally measured responses.
• Perform hot hardness testing and postmortem analysis.
• Perform spherical indentation and postmortem analysis.
• Estimate critical particle size associated with the brittle-to-ductile transition.
• Assist with developing additional concepts and tests to estimate shear strength.
• Develop model(s) to correlate to experimentally observed responses.
• Present and report research results.
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with core values.
• Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• PhD in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience in ceramics and brittle materials.
• Experience in experimental contact mechanics.
• Experience in microstructural characterization.
• Immediate eligibility to obtain and maintain DOE Q-Clearance.
• Experience with brittle materials.
• Experience with experimental contact testing including indentation/hardness testing.
• Experience with contact damage mechanics and mechanisms.
• Experience with material microstructure and its characterization.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and numerical analysis techniques.

Qualifications

• Excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities, accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to changing needs.

Special Requirements

• Visa sponsorship is not available.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy.
• This position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position, requiring passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.
• Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment.
• Appointment length will be up to 24 months with potential for extension, subject to performance and funding availability.
• Three letters of recommendation are required.