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Los Alamos National Laboratory · 7 hours ago

Molten Salt Pyroprocessing and Electrodeposition Postdoc

Los Alamos, NM

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

Los Alamos National Laboratory is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. The successful candidate will conduct experimental and analytical research focused on molten salt pyroprocessing, advancing the understanding and application of molten salt systems for electrochemical separations and protective coating development.

Security

Growth Opportunities

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Conduct experimental and analytical research to advance understanding and application of molten salt systems for electrochemical separations, processing, and protective coating development

Explore molten salt chemistry, electrodeposition, and pyrochemical processing of materials relevant to nuclear reactor fuels, refractory metals, and protective coatings

Develop new methods and materials for high-temperature electrochemical operations

Contribute to the design and optimization of scalable pyroprocessing systems

Qualification

Molten salt chemistryElectrodeposition techniquesHigh temperature furnace operationsGlovebox operationsMaterials characterizationAnalytical chemistryCollaborative researchInterpersonal communicationCreative problem solving

Required

Sound academic training in alkali or alkaline earth chloride or fluoride molten salt chemistry and electrochemistry

Hands-on experience with molten salts in a laboratory setting; experience with potentiometry, amperometry, and materials characterization techniques (ex: scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, profilometry, etc.)

Experience in glovebox operations and inert environments

Experience with high temperature furnace operations

Willingness to work with radioactive materials (e.g., thorium, uranium, plutonium)

Demonstrated ability to carry out independent and collaborative research

Strong technical and interpersonal communication and language skills both orally and in writing, as evidenced by peer-reviewed research papers or conference presentations

Creative and proactive approach to scientific problem solving

Proven ability to meet research deliverables and deadlines

Proven ability to work in a multidisciplinary research team

PhD in materials science, metallurgy, chemistry or related field completed within the past five years or soon to be completed. Must be completed before hiring

Preferred

Experience with molten salt systems and pyroprocessing techniques

Experience with molten salt electrodeposition methods and techniques (e.g., electrodeposition, metalliding, or surface modification)

Experience with other coating techniques (e.g., CVD, PVD, or aqueous electrodeposition), methodology, and characterization (e.g., adhesion, porosity, thickness)

Experience in one or more additional discipline(s): analytical chemistry, materials science, spectroscopy, microscopy