Nuclear Fuel Performance Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Nuclear Fuel Performance Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in our Computational Mechanics and Materials department. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every Friday off.

You will focus on the analysis of nuclear fuels (TRISO, metallic fuels, oxide fuels, and advanced reactor fuels) and materials using the BISON finite element fuel performance code (https://mooseframework.inl.gov/bison/). You will develop simulations and data analysis capabilities that help push the boundaries of nuclear fuel research at and beyond INL. Research in this department includes a diverse set of projects ranging from development of multi-scale methods for constitutive properties to coupled thermo-mechanical analysis of experiments and reactor systems to uncertainty quantification of modeling tools using machine learning analysis. You will contribute to some of these core research areas and demonstrate the impact of your work through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. You will participate in engineering projects that impact scientific challenges, solving complex technological issues facing the nation.

Responsibilities Include:

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  Have knowledge and completed coursework relevant to nuclear fuels and materials performance under irradiation.

  
  
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  Perform engineering and scientific analyses for advanced fuel types using the BISON code.

  
  
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  Build expertise in the application of finite-element analysis.

  
  
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  Write and contribute to scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journal publication and present research results at national (and international) conferences and meetings.

  
  
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  Help develop plans for new research areas and proposals.

  
  
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  Provide peer review of related research internal and external to INL.

  
  
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  Have an interest in developing new skills to apply to complex nuclear and material science-based models.

  
  
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  Become a strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and work both alone and as a team member.

  
  
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  Develop proficiency with scientific computing languages: C++, Python, git, MacOS/Linux, and LaTeX.

  
  

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  PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years

  
  
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  PhD in nuclear, mechanical, civil, or a related engineering field or other relevant discipline

  
  
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  Demonstrated knowledge of fuel performance modeling techniques such as: numerical methods, constitutive modeling (ex. plasticity, creep, and fracture), and code/model-coupling strategies

  
  
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  A strong background in material performance in nuclear environments

  
  
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  A basic understanding of using experimental measurements or code results to develop input conditions for finite-element analysis

  
  
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  Experience in software development and code stewardship

  
  
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  Excellent skills in communicating scientific results

  
  
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  Advanced proficiency with scientific computing languages and object-oriented programming

  
  

Job Information:

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  Salary: $96,900 Annually

  
  
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  You are required to show a demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working environment.

  
  

Benefits and Relocation

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  Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts

  
  
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  Paid time off (personal leave)

  
  
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  Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)

  
  
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  Comprehensive Relocation Package

  
  
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  Benefit eligibility subject multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

  
  

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 5,000 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to discover new science and development technologies that underpin the nation's nuclear and renewable energy, national security, and environmental missions.

INL Mission Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity Idaho 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. Women and People of Color are strongly encouraged to apply.

Reasonable Accommodation We 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 Information When 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.