Fusion Modeling and Simulation Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in Nuclear Engineering or a comparable discipline for the Computational Frameworks Department, within the Scientific Computing and Artificial Intelligence Division. This postdoctoral researcher will focus on fusion energy multiphysics modeling and simulation development within the Multiphysics Object Oriented Simulation Environment (MOOSE) framework ecosystem. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of the Collaborative Computing Center (C3) facility in Idaho Falls with every other Friday off.

INL is building leading fusion modeling and simulation capabilities, and research will include topics in many areas of fusion systems depending on the scientist's expertise, including electromagnetics, plasma physics, thermomechanics, thermal hydraulics, tritium transport modeling, and general multiphysics integration. In this position, the researcher will contribute to the development, maintenance, and support of fusion engineering and numerical models and perform analysis and research using these tools. This research work will build on several open-source applications: the Tritium Migration Analysis Program, version 8 (TMAP8), the Software for Advanced Large-scale Analysis of MAgnetic confinement for Numerical Design, Engineering & Research (SALAMANDER), MOOSE, the MOOSE Electromagnetics Module, and general fusion modeling capabilities.

The research associate will interface with the INL Fusion Safety Program, the Computational Mechanics and Materials Department, with other research groups at INL, and with researchers at other national laboratories and universities, as well as private partners. The research associate will work on diverse problems, demonstrating good judgment within defined procedures in finding imaginative, thorough, and practical solutions.

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 mentors, other team members, and peers as well as provide input in a constructive manner to others while maintaining a positive and professional relationship with all, even while under pressure and tight deadlines. The candidate will mentor interns and other staff members as appropriate.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, contributing to the development of new computational capabilities, constructing online documentation and user's manuals based on simulation studies and user-oriented examples, writing technical reports, providing peer review of other's work, seeking out new research opportunities, and presenting research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

Required:

• PhD in Nuclear Engineering or a comparable discipline
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years

• Knowledge of fusion science and engineering modeling techniques

• Proficiency with a coding language

• Demonstrated expertise (through peer-reviewed publications) in principles of fusion-relevant multiphysics modeling and simulation

• Demonstrated ability to work closely with multi-disciplinary groups to achieve research results

• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Familiarity with the MOOSE framework, TMAP8, or SALAMANDER
• Proficiency with one or more of the following coding languages: C++, Python
• Experience modeling plasma dynamics, particularly at fusion-relevant energies
• Knowledge and experience with computational electrodynamics
• Experience modeling mechanical stresses on structures and materials induced by electromagnetic fields
• Familiarity with superconducting magnet systems (e.g., operation, power delivery, failure modes, etc.)

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of 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 range 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.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information:

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.