Nuclear Fuel Performance Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate to support national fuel development and qualification efforts within the Fuel Development, Performance and Qualification department. The successful candidate will focus on analyzing experimental data from irradiated fuels and materials to understand performance and degradation mechanisms. While microscopy may be used on an as-needed basis, the primary focus is on interpreting post-irradiation examination (PIE) data and integrating findings into fuel performance models. The role offers opportunities to contribute to national research programs and collaborate with industry partners.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Analyze PIE data to identify irradiation-induced changes in fuels and structural materials
• Correlate experimental observations with thermomechanical behavior and fuel performance
• Support the development of data-driven insights to inform fuel qualification strategies
• Conduct microscopy-based characterization (e.g., SEM, TEM, FIB) as needed to support data interpretation
• Collaborate with modeling teams to integrate experimental results into simulation frameworks
• Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and present findings at conferences
• Engage with multidisciplinary teams across national labs, academia, and industry

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years
• Experience analyzing experimental data related to irradiated materials or nuclear fuels
• Understanding of irradiation effects, materials degradation, or fuel behavior under extreme conditions

Preferred Experience:

• Background in fuel performance modeling or materials degradation mechanisms
• Experience conducting beamline experiments (electron, ion, synchrotron, or neutron) for imaging, scattering, or diffraction
• Familiarity with microscopy techniques (SEM, TEM, FIB)
• Strong publication record and ability to work in collaborative research environments

Job Information:

The pay range for this position is $101,196.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject 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.

INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.