Thermal Energy Systems Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in nuclear or mechanical engineering or comparable discipline for the Thermal Systems Analysis group in the Integrated Systems and Thermal Analysis department. This postdoctoral researcher will focus on thermal energy systems, integrated energy systems, industrial heat applications, thermal power generation, heat transfer, process modeling, technoeconomic analysis, and cost estimation of advanced energy systems. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off. 

The selected candidate will work with interdisciplinary teams supporting nuclear-integrated industrial applications, advanced thermal management concepts, energy conversion systems, and related modeling and analysis activities, as well as experimental systems design. The candidate will support work on optimizing these from a cost, reliability and technical standpoint.

The candidate is expected to be a strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and work effectively both alone and as a team member. The candidate must be self-motivated but also take direction from other team members and peers.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

 

Required:

• PhD in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering or comparable disciplines.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years. 
• Knowledge of system thermodynamics and power generation technical analysis, heat exchange and heat exchangers, system modeling, and thermal power generation technologies.
• Knowledge of technoeconomic analysis and energy economics with the ability to assess and optimize engineering problems from a technical and economic perspective.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.
   

The ideal candidate will possess:

• General coding experience and thermodynamic modelling experience; examples include:
  • Knowledge of Python, Matlab/Simulink or equivalent general analysis coding language.
  • Experience in modelling tools such as Aspen HYSYS, Modelica, EES, EBSILONProfessional, or equivalent.
• Nuclear Engineering
  • Knowledge of nuclear systems and nuclear power plant engineering.
• Experimental Design
  • Previous experience in designing thermal system experiments desired but not required.
• Cost Estimation
  • Experience in cost estimation of engineering systems. Job will involve working with vendors and industrial partners to assess the cost of designed systems.
• Experience with concepts such as capacity expansion, cash flow analysis, levelized electricity costs etc.
   

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people 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.