Fusion Energy Scientist

Requisition Id 9259 

Overview: 

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory. ORNL aims to maximize the probability of timely credible fusion pilot plant design that projects to commercial viability. We develop validated, integrated modeling toolsets and expertise for fusion reactor design and assessment, develop and demonstrate technology components, and perform foundational R&D needed for longer term success of fusion energy as a clean, reliable energy source. 

We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Scientist to perform high impact work in the area of experimental tokamak plasma boundary physics.  The position would be located at the DIII-D National Fusion Facility in San Diego, CA. The candidate will utilize ORNL’s spectroscopic diagnostics, perform experiments, data analysis, model validation, and apply improved understanding to reactor design.  Depending on interest, the candidate could work in the area of divertor design or plasma facing material solutions, leveraging ORNL’s large boundary simulation tools and expertise.

The selected candidate will be a member of ORNL’s Advanced Tokamak Group, which is working to accelerate development of the physics basis for combining a high-performance plasma core and compatible edge solution needed for a compact fusion pilot plant. The candidate will support the entire DIII-D Team, with a unique opportunity to build strong collaborations with other world-leading institutions.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

Duties include, but are not limited to:

Supporting operation, maintenance, and data analysis needs for spectroscopic diagnostics

Developing, executing, and analyzing data from experimental studies, including comparisons with simulation results.

Collaborating with a broad and diverse team, including experimentalists and computational colleagues.

Timely dissemination of research results through publications and presentations at scientific conferences and workshops.

Maintaining a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of ORNL’s values and ethics.

Basic Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field completed within the last 5 years.

Experience in experimental research, computational modeling, or both.

Scientific research ability demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications and/or presentations at technical conferences.

Preferred Qualifications:

Familiarity with optical diagnostics, tokamak boundary modeling, or plasma-materials interactions.

Strong interest in contributing to the pursuit of fusion energy to enable a sustainable future.

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.

Applicants must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment.

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.

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.