Research & Development Associate-Chemical Transformation of Macromolecules

Requisition Id 16494 

RP02

­­Overview:  

We are seeking a Research and Development Associate – Chemical Transformation of Macromolecules who will focus on chemical modification of polymers for synthesis of energy materials and polymer matrix composites.  This position resides in the Carbon and Composites Group in the Separations and Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Conduct chemical modification of polymers for energy materials synthesis


• Synthesize deuterated copolymers for neutron scattering experiments


• Conduct monomer purification, polymerization and polymer functionalization


• Conduct block copolymer synthesis and chemical characterization (e.g., spectroscopy, thermal analysis, morphological characterization by scattering and microscopy tools, and data analysis).


• Synthesize and functionalize polymers with complex architecture for use as processing aids


• Functionalize fibers and fillers for enhanced load translation at fiber-matrix interfaces in polymer matrix composites


• Develop repeat unit structure which drive self-assembly toward ultrafine domain sizes for innovative functional properties and lithography approaches.  

• Work both independently and collaboratively with co-workers, principal investigators, and other staff members to follow procedures for polymer synthesis and characterization and to develop new processing methods.

• Laboratory space management and maintain hazardous chemical inventory management.


• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD degree in polymer chemistry, chemistry, or a related discipline


• A minimum of 2 years of experience, post PhD, in ionic and free radical synthesis of polymers with controlled architectures


• Experienced in characterization of polymer dynamics in thermosets, elastomers and vitrimers


• Experienced in NMR spectroscopy and chromatographic characterization of monomers, oligomers and polymers


• Experienced in x-ray and neutron scattering data analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in multiphase polymer synthesis via reactive processing and characterization


• Motivated and safety conscious.


• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and a willingness to participate creatively in a collaborative team environment.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.


• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.


• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.  Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.  This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year.  This includes 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) risk determination to maintain employment.  Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

Letters of Recommendation:

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to [email protected].

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

• Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov


• View Profile


• Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

About ORNL

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: [email protected].

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email [email protected].

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.