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. This role offers opportunities to contribute to national research programs and collaborate with industry partners.

Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

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.

Required:

• Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Physics, or a closely 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.
  

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Background in fuel performance, development, modeling or materials degradation mechanisms.
• Experience with metallic alloys of nuclear fuels, especially U10Mo.
• Familiarity with microscopy techniques (SEM, TEM, FIB).
• Strong publication record and ability to work in collaborative research environments./
  

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/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 and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public 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.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to 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.