Section Head- Materials in Extremes Section

Overview:  

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Section Head to lead groundbreaking research within a thematic area of Materials in Extremes. This position resides in the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD), at ORNL.

Materials for extreme operating environments is among ORNL’s signature research capabilities. MSTD conducts world-leading research on metallic, ceramic, and composite materials for harsh environments with emphasis on materials for nuclear energy, fusion, combustion, space, transportation, and bioenergy. The research supports missions for multiple program offices within the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), including Office of Science, Office of Nuclear Energy, Office of Fusion, Hydrocarbon and Geothermal Energy Office, Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation, National Nuclear Security Administration, and other government departments and agencies.

This unique opportunity allows you to intertwine science with leadership. As a Section Head, you will be part MSTD’s Leadership Team, contributing to the development and execution of strategies in materials R&D and making an impact through your collaborations with fellow leaders, engagement across ORNL, and relationships with external partners. Simultaneously, your role as a Distinguished R&D Staff Member includes leading and conducting groundbreaking, scientific research in your own area of expertise within the overarching theme of Materials in Extremes.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Lead and champion internationally renowned, innovative materials science and engineering research for harsh operating environments
• Mentor and guide Group Leaders, encouraging their growth while also fostering an innovative and collaborative work environment
• Provide leadership to strategically advance the mission of Division in materials for extreme environments
• Provide high-level oversight to the Section’s experimental facilities including the Low Activation Materials Development and Analysis (LAMDA) facility and creep & mechanical test laboratories as well as communicating to Division leadership the resource needs to deliver world-class capabilities
• 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:

• A PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field
• A minimum of 12 years of professional research experience
• Experience leading R&D groups or teams

Preferred Qualifications:

• Scientific productivity and impact proven by a full list of publications and commonly accepted citation metrics
• International reputation of excellence in area of expertise
• Track record of successful program development and funded research proposals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• 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: 

• Letters of Recommendation: Please be prepared to submit three (3) letters of reference when applying to this position.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Export control, no clearance:  This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.
• 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.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) 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! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

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.

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.

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.