Job Details

Chemical Modeling Postdoctoral Research AssociateIdaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate for a Computational Thermo-Chemistry and Chemical Modeling position. This position requires domain expertise in one or more of the following areas: thermodynamics, chemical speciation modeling, electrochemistry, high-temperature chemistry, and computational method development. A strong theoretical background in aspects of equilibrium thermodynamics, Gibbs energy minimization, reaction kinetics, and numerical optimization is highly beneficial.You will apply your expertise to large-scale thermo-chemical modeling challenges relevant to advanced nuclear technologies, including molten salt reactor speciation, chemical processing for critical materials , and corrosion-related chemistry . The position will involve work in the MOOSE ecosystem , including development of new capabilities for Gibbs energy minimization acceleration, multiphysics coupling between thermochemical models and neutronics/CFD/corrosion simulations , and integration of thermodynamic databases with mesoscale corrosion models.Experience with high-temperature materials, molten salts, or nuclear fuel cycle chemistry is beneficial but not required. Responsibilities include completing DOE-sponsored program work scope, writing scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, presenting results at national and international conferences, delivering reports to DOE sponsors, and contributing to proposals.Core ExpertiseThermodynamics and Chemical SpeciationEquilibrium thermodynamics for complex multicomponent systemsGibbs energy minimization formulations and algorithms (global/local optimization, convexity considerations, stability criteria)Reaction equilibria, redox chemistry, electrochemistry, and activity models for molten salts or other high-temperature mediaComputational Method DevelopmentNumerical methods for robust, accelerated minimization (e.g., Newton-based schemes, gradient-based optimization, homotopy/continuation approaches, constraint handling), GPU based optimizationEfficient treatment of phase stability, phase transitions, and multi-phase equilibriaAlgorithmic coupling of thermodynamics with transport, kinetics, or irradiation effectsMultiphysics Simulation & CouplingCoupling thermochemical calculations with neutronics, fluid dynamics, structural integrity, and corrosion modelsExperience with frameworks for large-scale multiphysics simulation; familiarity with MOOSE is preferredUnderstanding of data structures and interfaces needed to link thermodynamic databases (e.g., CALPHAD-style data) to mesoscale or continuum modelsSoftware Engineering for Scientific ComputingExperience developing numerical algorithms in large-scale, open-source scientific codes (MOOSE experience is a plus)Proficiency with Python, git, Linux/MacOS environments, and LaTeX is preferredQualificationsPh.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related fieldPhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 yearsCommunicating technical results clearly in oral presentations and written reportsProducing high-quality, peer-reviewed journal publicationsContributing to the development of new research directions and proposalsWorking effectively within an interdisciplinary team spanning chemistry, materials science, nuclear engineering, and computational scienceTaking initiative in innovative R&D projects addressing complex national-scale challenges in advanced nuclear energy and critical materials processingINL encourages candidates who meet some, but not necessarily all, of the preferred qualifications to apply. We value researchers who bring depth in specific areas and enthusiasm for learning new approaches relevant to our mission.The pay range for this position is $101,196.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.Physical RequirementsWhile performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Benefits and RelocationMedical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending AccountsPaid time off (personal leave)Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.Seniority levelAssociateEmployment typeFull-timeJob functionResearch, Engineering, and ScienceIndustriesEngineering Services and Energy TechnologyEqual Employment OpportunityIdaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.Reasonable AccommodationWe will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.Other InformationWhen applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions may be deemed ineligible for consideration.INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.#J-18808-Ljbffr