Battery Data Analytics and Failure Analysis Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research associate in materials/chemical/mechanical/electrical/data or computer science or comparable discipline for the Energy Storage Research and Analysis Department. The successful candidate will specialize in high-throughput battery data analysis to characterize, identify and explain battery degradation and failure modes and their underlying mechanisms. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

The researcher will work within an interdisciplinary team of test engineers, battery scientists, data scientists, and artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) model developers. The team investigates how application-specific operating conditions and duty cycles affect battery performance, life, and safety. 

A central objective of this position is to translate large, complex experimental datasets into physically meaningful insights that support root-cause analysis and improved battery technologies. It is expected that the candidate has prior experience with Li or Li-ion battery electrochemical and non-electrochemical testing and/or data analysis, and familiarity of different conventional and non-conventional test methods that support failure mode analysis. Experience using Python, Matlab or other similar software is highly desired. 

Knowledge of and experience using advanced data analysis techniques including AI/ML is a plus. The ability to independently complete tasks aligned with the core expertise and provide timely updates to the project lead and other team members is required. Clear communication and the dissemination of research result in the form of peer reviewed publications and presentations at national and international scientific meetings are expected for this position. Offer and renewal is contingent on funding.
 

Required:

• PhD in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, or a closely related field.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills (in English). 
• Analyze complex datasets in the time and frequency domains. Identify diagnostic signatures of battery degradation, performance loss, and failure. Link data-driven insights to electrochemical, thermal, electrical, and mechanical failure mechanisms
• Develop or experience using scalable workflows for high-throughput battery test data.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, and work in an office and 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 lift and/or move up to 25 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information:

• The pay 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.