Solid Oxide Electrochemical Cells Postdoctoral Researcher

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

10d • $101,196 • Onsite

About The Position

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring one or more postdoctoral researchers in the hydrogen and electrochemistry department to perform laboratory experiments for solid oxide cells at elevated temperatures, reporting to the principal investigator. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.
We ask that you have knowledge and experience in at least one of the following areas:
1) Protonic ceramic conductor R&D with preference on fundamental understanding of solid-state physics or defect chemistry as well as the electrochemical characterizations on materials properties.
2) Heterogeneous catalysis for light alkane activation (preferably methane conversion) with electrochemical background.
3) Electrocatalysis (high temperature system with heterogeneous catalysis skills, the expertise in CO2 hydrogenation and/or N2 reduction desired).
4) Protonic ceramic cell fabrication, and manufacturing (expertise with the conventional ceramic engineering, additive manufacturing, spray coating, 3D printing and extrusion is sought after).
5) Development and testing of single unit cell (5x5 cm2 and 10x10 cm2) and short stack.
Responsibilities Include:
Have expertise in laboratory techniques such as Impedance Spectroscopy, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, temperature programmed experiment, and Raman, etc. for in-line measurements, and other common characterization methods.
You will be able to work well and efficiently in a highly team-oriented environment. You are required to communicate effectively with team members, mentor, and INL management.
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, as well as 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.

Requirements

• PhD in chemical engineering, material science and engineering, mechanical engineering, electrochemistry, chemistry, or related disciplines. Requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills (in English).
• Knowledge and experience in at least one of the following areas: 1) Protonic ceramic conductor R&D with preference on fundamental understanding of solid-state physics or defect chemistry as well as the electrochemical characterizations on materials properties. 2) Heterogeneous catalysis for light alkane activation (preferably methane conversion) with electrochemical background. 3) Electrocatalysis (high temperature system with heterogeneous catalysis skills, the expertise in CO2 hydrogenation and/or N2 reduction desired). 4) Protonic ceramic cell fabrication, and manufacturing (expertise with the conventional ceramic engineering, additive manufacturing, spray coating, 3D printing and extrusion is sought after). 5) Development and testing of single unit cell (5x5 cm2 and 10x10 cm2) and short stack.

Responsibilities

• Expertise in laboratory techniques such as Impedance Spectroscopy, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, temperature programmed experiment, and Raman, etc. for in-line measurements, and other common characterization methods.
• Work well and efficiently in a highly team-oriented environment. Communicate effectively with team members, mentor, and INL management.
• 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, as well as 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.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) access and self contribution
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees