Post Doctorate RA - Materials Scientist/Batteries Job at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland

Responsibilities: The Battery Materials and Systems (BMS) Group, within the Energy Processes and Materials Division of the Energy and Environment Directorate at PNNL, is seeking an outstanding materials scientist with a strong background in material synthesis, materials science, and electrochemistry, with hands-on experience in the material design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced battery materials for applications in energy storage technologies. The successful candidate will join a team of more than 60 world-class scientists and engineers working on a diverse portfolio of battery technologies. The primary scope of work is the design, synthesis, and testing of high-performance battery materials and electrolytes for energy storage technologies such as aqueous zinc (Zn), lithium-/sodium-ion (Li-/Na-ion), and/or redox flow batteries, with an emphasis on earth‑abundant elements. The candidate must be able to conduct in‑depth research independently and collaborate effectively within a team. The successful candidate will work with project managers, principal investigators, and other senior scientists to develop advanced electrode materials, design and synthesize innovative electrolytes. The candidate will also collaborate with scientists and engineers within and outside the group to identify and understand working mechanisms through advanced characterization and theoretical simulation. Specifically, the candidate will: Provide technical contribution and leadership through problem‑solving, innovation and creativity, which will include screening of various electrolytes and electrode materials, scaling‑up of materials for cell prototyping. Conduct and monitor state‑of‑the‑art experimentation that adheres to PNNL safety standards, policies, and procedures. Use know‑how to help improve overall laboratory safety culture. Demonstrate accurate record keeping of all calculations and experiments. Work effectively in a team of senior scientists/engineers and junior researchers/students of diverse background to safely conduct research and accomplish project objectives; receive guidance on new assignments, independently complete recurring assignments, select and develop technical approaches on assignments with oversight on complex problems, develops new ideas for funded research and builds professional reputation both inside and outside of PNNL Contribute clear and concise written and oral presentations of data, analysis, and internal/external reports. Prepare manuscripts for publications and present their work at project reviews and national/international conferences.

QualificationsMinimum Qualifications: Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university. PhD in electrochemistry, chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or related field.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience with the high-performance aqueous‑Zn, Li‑/Na‑ion, or redox flow battery. Organic synthesis techniques are a plus. Thorough understanding of engineering, material science and electrochemistry principles. Desire to demonstrate technical aptitude in a laboratory environment, including advanced materials synthesis, cell prototyping, electrochemical testing and characterization techniques, experimental setup and operation. The candidate should have excellent problem‑solving skills based on a thorough understanding of electrochemistry and the ability to work safely and independently under supervision. The candidate should have strong analytical, task management, and technical communication skills. Good written and oral communication skills and an ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment. Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentNot applicable. Testing Designated PositionThis is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP). About PNNLPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world‑class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them! At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45‑minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs. Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment OpportunityOur laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PNNL considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov. Drug Free WorkplacePNNL is committed to a drug‑free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs. If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn. Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility RequirementsAs a national laboratory, PNNL is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require new employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identify Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. For foreign national candidates: If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three‑year residency requirement thereafter, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. The tier of federal background investigation required to obtain the PIV credential will be determined by job duties at the time you become eligible for the PIV credential.

Mandatory Requirements: Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a country of risk without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment. Rockstar RewardsEmployees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company‑funded pension plan and may enroll in our 401 (k) savings plan with company match. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.

• Research Associates excluded.