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CHEManager International

Plasma / Ion Beam Research Scientist- Associate

CHEManager International, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States, 37830

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Plasma / Ion Beam Research Scientist - Associate Oak Ridge National Laboratory is looking for an Associate Plasma / Ion Beam Research Scientist to support the Enrichment Science and Engineering Division. This role involves advancing the electromagnetic isotope separation technology and the plasma separation process. Our isotopic products enable a wide variety of applications, including curing cancer with radiopharmaceuticals, conducting basic scientific research, and ensuring national security. The position will integrate into an existing research team, focusing on plasma and ion beam science and technology to enhance isotope enrichment systems.

Purpose The Enrichment Science and Engineering Division focuses on advancing enrichment technologies and exploring stable isotope production and applications. The division leverages scientists and engineers’ expertise and the capabilities of Oak Ridge National Laboratory to deliver advancements that serve national security, medicine, and scientific research. The Division oversees research, development, and demonstration of enrichment technologies and manages the nation’s stable isotope inventory. The successful candidate will plan and conduct research and development (R&D) to advance plasma science and technology to support plasma‑based enrichment systems, including Electromagnetic Isotope Separation (EMIS). The role involves integrating into the existing research team, learning current enrichment technologies, and developing expertise over time.

Major Duties / Responsibilities

Apply advanced concepts in plasma physics, ion beam transport, plasma chemistry, ion‑surface interactions, and related technologies to develop and deploy plasma‑based enrichment technologies, including EMIS.

Use experimental data and simulations to understand the physics driving enrichment technology and identify optimization paths.

Independently complete research to advance high‑mass ion source technology for flexibility across the periodic table while improving efficiency and stability.

Conduct experiments in high‑current ion beam transport and isotope collection to optimize throughput and eliminate contamination sources.

Collaborate with scientists to develop new isotope separation technologies to support the DOE Isotope Research Program.

Develop into a subject matter expert for plasma‑based enrichment operations.

Work closely with colleagues and safety professionals to ensure safe execution of work.

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 and Requirements

PhD in physics, engineering, chemistry, or related fields with relevant research experience.

Ability to generate and execute new research ideas.

Experience performing experimental research with plasma sources and/or ion beams.

Demonstrated ability to work in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments.

Experience working within R&D teams to solve complex problems.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Ability to function well in a fast‑paced research environment and adapt to changing needs.

Preferred Qualifications and Research Topics of Interest

Experience with high‑current, low‑energy ion beam accelerators.

Experience with electrostatic and magnetic ion beam optics.

Experience with ion source design, testing, and modeling.

Experience in plasma resonant heating using RF and/or microwave sources.

Experience with plasma/ion transport in magnetic fields.

Interest in developing high‑efficiency ion source technology for unique plasmas.

Ability to translate physics understanding into experimental designs.

Mechanical and electrical engineering skills in an R&D environment.

Experience with multiphysics simulation tools and collaborating with modeling researchers.

Experience coupling experimental diagnostic data to simulation results.

Experience in complex plasma chemistry.

Experience in isotope enrichment science and engineering.

Special Requirements

Q Clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre‑placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

Physical Requirements: Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. A pre‑hire physical will be required after offer.

Visa sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About ORNL As a U.S. Department of Energy 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. We value a diversity of perspectives and backgrounds, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs, including medical and retirement plans, flexible work hours, on‑site fitness, banking, cafeteria facilities, and a range of employee benefits such as prescription drug, dental, vision, 401(k), pension, life and disability insurance, generous vacation, parental leave, legal insurance with identity theft protection, employee assistance, flexible spending, health savings, wellness, education, relocation, and discounts.

Relocation Moving can be overwhelming and expensive. UT‑Battelle offers a generous relocation package to ease the transition. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions. If invited to interview, be sure to ask your recruiter for details.

Application Assistance If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov. 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. Resumes from third‑party vendors will not be accepted and will be deleted.

Equal Opportunity 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.

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