Postdoctoral Research Associate - Synthetic Polymer Chemist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Oak Ridge, TN

Full-time - Entry Level

Oak Ridge, TN

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on the synthesis of doped semiconducting polymers for use in multilayer conductive devices. This position resides in the Soft Materials and Membranes Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy Office of Science national laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. The research will focus on developing multilayer semiconducting polymer films, involving all aspects of monomer and polymer synthesis, small molecule and polymer characterization, film preparation by solution casting or layer-by-layer deposition, and thermomechanical testing on the synthesized polymeric materials. Additionally, based on property characterization and evaluations, polymer compositions will need to be modified and optimized through manipulation/alteration of functionality, topology and/or degree of polymerization. The ability to adjust chemistry to achieve control and optimization of interfacial reactions and transport properties between different types of layers (polymer and non-polymer) will also be critical. In this position, the postdoc will work as part of an interdisciplinary team working towards the development of novel conductive devices. The postdoc is expected to lead these synthesis and characterization efforts while integrating with technical support staff and expert collaborators in materials science, computational modeling, and application subject matter experts. They will also design and execute laboratory experiments, analyze quantitative data, write, and communicate results to our sponsors and the scientific community.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize monomers and other building blocks for semiconductive polymers
• Synthesize semiconductive polymers by step-growth or chain-growth polymerization
• Characterize polymer mechanical and viscoelastic properties
• Assist in the regular cultivation of data and report writing for sponsors
• Ensure that project milestones are met in a timely manner
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Present research results at national scientific meetings
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Take a position of leadership for day-to-day laboratory operations
• Participate in project planning and execution
• Work with staff to develop new proposals
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
• 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

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering or closely related fields
• Expertise in organic/polymer synthesis and characterization methods
• Applicants cannot have received the most recent degree more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge and expertise in multi-step organic synthesis
• Knowledge and expertise in air-sensitive chemistry and the related laboratory techniques
• Knowledge and expertise in controlled/living polymerization
• Knowledge and expertise in mechanical and viscoelastic characterization of polymers
• Knowledge and expertise in polymer processing and manufacturing
• Experience generating and analyzing large datasets
• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently, safety conscious, and participate creatively in solving problems and refining projects' directions
• An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and interact effectively with a broad range of colleagues.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Vision Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance