Researcher in Astrophysics

Location: Oak Ridge, TN, US, 37830
Company: Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
Requisition ID: 16053
Appointment: Full-time, initial 2-year LDRD-supported appointment, expected transition to permanent based on performance and funding

Overview

Join ORNL’s Physics Division as a Research Staff Scientist in the Nuclear Structure Astrophysics Group. Conduct independent research in nuclear structure and nuclear astrophysics, contribute to experimental design, instrumentation, and data analysis, and develop ML/AI tools for nuclear physics applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on exotic nuclei physics.
• Lead design, setup, and execution of experiments at national/international facilities (FRIB, ATLAS).
• Develop instrumentation and analysis techniques.
• Publish papers, write proposals, and act as Principal Investigator.
• Supervise staff and students.
• Present work internally and externally.
• Support ORNL’s mission and uphold core values: Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, Service.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in nuclear physics or related field.
• ≥5 years of post-PhD experience in relevant research.
• Expertise in low-energy nuclear physics.
• Ability to analyze nuclear physics experimental data.
• Preferred: experience with gamma-ray arrays (GRETINA) and charged-particle detectors (GODDESS).

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong record of publications and scientific presentations.
• Leadership in independent research.
• Ability to collaborate with staff internally and externally.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter, able to work in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

Application Instructions

Submit the following:

1. Cover letter outlining research interests and qualifications
2. Curriculum vitae (CV)
3. Contact information for three references

Application support: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov (for disability accommodations or technical issues)

Security & Eligibility

• Must obtain/maintain HSPD-12 PIV badge and comply with DOE access restrictions.
• Real ID-compliant identification required.
• Federal Tier 1 background check required (includes drug activity declaration).
• Foreign nationals: PIV credential requires 3 years consecutive U.S. residence or Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) approval.

Benefits & Workplace

• Medical, dental, vision coverage
• Retirement plans: 401(k), contributory pension
• Life and disability insurance
• Generous vacation, holidays, parental leave
• Employee assistance, legal, wellness, and educational programs
• Flexible work hours and on-site amenities (fitness, banking, cafeteria)
• Relocation assistance and employee discounts

Additional Information

• Position open for a minimum of 5 days; closes when a qualified candidate is hired.
• Accepted file types: Word (.doc/.docx), PDF (unsecured), RTF, HTML (≤5MB).
• ORNL is an equal opportunity employer; UT-Battelle participates in E-Verify.

In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com