Overview: 

We are seeking an R&D Staff Member – Physical Organic Chemist who will focus on the synthesizing of new ligands/materials and studying the relationship between chemical structure and reactivity, in particular, applying experimental tools to the study of ion (anion, f-element, transition metal, etc.) separations.  This position resides in the Chemical Separations Group in the Separations & Polymer Chemistry Section, Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

As part of our research team, you will be responsible for delivering high impact research results to advance the work on ligand/material synthesis and/or ion separations, generating new scientific ideas and managing projects. You will be closely working with specialists in synthesis, separations chemistry, radiochemistry, theory, spectroscopy, and materials characterization.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Participate in and lead project planning and execution
• Develop novel organic compounds and/or materials to advance ion separation
• Perform hands-on synthesis and characterization (e.g., using, NMR, FT-IR, UV-Vis spectroscopies, etc.) of organic compounds/materials
• Present and report research results at the project, group, PI meetings and national conferences
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Write proposals and apply for internal and external funding
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD degree in Chemistry or a related discipline and five years of experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• A strong background in synthetic organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, total synthesis of naturally occurring compounds, or organic methodology including experience with multi-step organic synthesis and organic compound isolation/purification (e.g., column chromatography, crystallization, distillation, sublimation, etc.)
• A broad theoretical and experimental knowledge of different organic transformations and expertise in structural characterization by 1D and 2D NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, etc.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• A record of productive and creative research proven by publications in peer-reviewed journals, patents, conference presentations, etc.
• 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

Special Requirements:

Three letters of reference are required and can be uploaded to your profile or emailed directly to PSDrecruit@ornl.gov.  Please include the title of the position in the subject line.

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.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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.