Field-Assisted Separations Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in Chemistry, Separation Science, or comparable discipline for the Mineral & Molecular Separations & Analysis Department. This postdoctoral researcher will play a central role in advancing next-generation physical and chemical separation methodologies with an emphasis on critical materials recovery and purification. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of innovative ligand-assisted electrophoretic and magnetophoretic technologies, integrating fundamental chemistry with applied separation science. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of the Energy Innovation Laboratory with every other Friday off. The postdoctoral researcher will report to the PI, B642 Group Lead, and the Department Manager.

The researcher will design and investigate novel ligand systems using capillary electrophoresis to elucidate metal-ligand interactions, separation efficiencies, and transport behaviors. They will also lead the construction, optimization, and performance testing of free-flowing electrophoresis apparatuses to evaluate separation strategies at multiple scales. In this role, the postdoctoral researcher will develop advanced analytical instrumentation skills, including method development, instrument calibration, and quantitative analysis, while applying rigorous data processing and interpretation methods.

Beyond experimental research, the postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for documenting results, preparing high-quality manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and presenting research findings at conferences. Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, mentorship of students, and contribution to proposal development will also be expected.

The candidate is expected to be a strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and work effectively both alone and as a team member. The candidate must be self-motivated but also take direction from other team members and peers.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

Required:

• PhD in Chemistry, Radiochemistry, Nuclear Engineering, Physics, or comparable disciplines.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.
  

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience in chemical separations.
• Experience in electrophoretic separations.
• Strong metal-ligand chemistry background.
  
  

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally move up to 50 pounds using carts/dollies to move equipment into place. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information:

• The pay range for this position is $105,144.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

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 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

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.

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.