Computational Reactor Physics and Cross Section Methods Associate R&D Staff Member

Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Oak Ridge, TN

Full-time - Entry Level

Oak Ridge, TN

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory has been a hub for nuclear energy for 80 years. Our Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division (NEFCD) brings together over 240 researchers and technical professionals from various fields to develop and showcase innovative nuclear technologies. We are committed to enabling the safe and efficient delivery of nuclear benefits both now and in the future. Join our team at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) as a staff member in the Nuclear Energy and Fuel Cycle Division's Nuclear Transmutation and Decay Physics Group.

Responsibilities

• Develop scientific research in advanced reactor physics modeling and simulation as well as cross section processing through novel methods and algorithm design.
• Contribute to new reactor physics and cross section methods research proposals and conduct world-class research that is published in peer-reviewed journals.
• Interact effectively across organization structures with staff scientists and engineers and be an effective representative of ORNL and their research to sponsors and the professional community.
• Serve as a role model for integrity and safety in the conduct of research, mentoring of early career staff, and engagement with scientific and professional societies.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
• Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering or a related field.

Nice-to-haves

• Prior research experience in nuclear reactor systems modeling and simulation and cross section processing.
• Expertise in software development (C++ preferred), as demonstrated through research and associated publications, with focus on one or more of the following: Monte Carlo transport, deterministic transport, depletion, multigroup cross section processing, and various geometry models (Computer Aided Design, unstructured mesh, Constructive Solid Geometry, etc.).
• Familiarity with established nuclear systems analysis software (such as SCALE, Nuclear Energy Advanced Modeling and Simulation (NEAMS) codes, MCNP, and Serpent).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Benefits

• Medical and retirement plans
• Flexible work hours
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities
• 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
• Employee Discounts