Oak Ridge National Laboratory
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Postdoctoral Research Associate in Residual Stress Characterization for Advanced Manufacturing Using Neutron Diffraction Oak Ridge National Laboratory in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Mechanical Engineering
Funding
The posting does not state a specific salary, stipend, or tuition arrangement. The appointment is for up to 24 months, with possible extension subject to performance and funding availability. ORNL offers employee benefits including medical and retirement plans, prescription, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), pension, life and disability insurance, vacation and holidays, parental leave, flexible spending and health savings accounts, wellness programs, educational assistance, employee discounts,
Country
United States
University
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
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About this position
Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for research on residual stress characterization in advanced manufacturing using neutron diffraction. The position is based in the Engineering Diffraction Group within the Engineering Diffraction and Imaging Section, Neutron Scattering Division, and Neutron Sciences Directorate.
The project investigates residual strain and stress in alloys produced through additive manufacturing and advanced joining methods. Using neutron diffraction, particularly the HIDRA neutron diffractometer at the High Flux Isotope Reactor, the researcher will study how residual stress relates to processing conditions, microstructure, and mechanical properties. The results will support the development and validation of process models for advanced manufacturing.
The work combines experimental engineering diffraction with materials characterization and data analysis. The researcher will examine additively manufactured components and joined materials, considering factors such as build strategy, heat input, and post-process heat treatment. Related techniques may include scanning electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction, alongside analytical, machine-learning, and modeling approaches.
The researcher will collaborate with teams across ORNL’s Neutron Sciences Directorate, Physical Sciences Directorate, and Manufacturing Demonstration Facility. Responsibilities include experiment planning, data analysis with HIDRA users, collaboration with internal and external research teams, presenting findings, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. The research environment is multidisciplinary and connected to engineering alloys, additive manufacturing, welding, joining, and thermal-mechanical process modeling.
The opening supports research in materials science, mechanical engineering, physics, advanced manufacturing, neutron scattering, residual stress, microstructure, and materials data analytics.
Funding details
The posting does not state a specific salary, stipend, or tuition arrangement. The appointment is for up to 24 months, with possible extension subject to performance and funding availability. ORNL offers employee benefits including medical and retirement plans, prescription, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), pension, life and disability insurance, vacation and holidays, parental leave, flexible spending and health savings accounts, wellness programs, educational assistance, employee discounts,
What's required
Applicants must hold a PhD in materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry, or a related field completed within the last five years, and must complete all degree requirements before starting the appointment. Research experience with advanced manufacturing methods such as additive manufacturing, welding, or other materials joining processes is required, along with proficiency in materials data analytics, including correlation analysis and machine learning techniques. Preferred qualifications include experience with SEM, EBSD, TEM, XRD, neutron or synchrotron diffraction, contour method or hole drilling, engineering alloys, diffraction and data-analysis tools such as GSAS, GSAS-II, PyRS, VDRIVE, or Mantid, additive manufacturing or welding processes, residual-stress development mechanisms, and finite-element modeling. Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge or, where applicable, a favorable LSSO risk determination, and must submit two letters of reference.
How to apply
Apply through the ORNL online application portal using the Apply now link. Upload your application documents through the candidate profile; submit two reference letters with the position title and requisition number 17401, either through the application or by email to [email protected].
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.