Overview: We are seeking one Postdoctoral Research Associates who will focus on the synthesis and physical characterization of polymeric materials for different applications, including energy storage, elastomer and sealant. This position resides in the Soft Materials Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
The research will be focused on design, synthesis and characterization of high-performance polymers like polymer electrolytes, polymer coating for energy storage applications, high-toughness elastomer, and self-curing sealant for building technology. The research will entail precise synthesis of both small molecules and well-defined polymers using controlled polymerization techniques, and their structural characterization including NMR, DSC, TGA, their mechanical characterizations including tensile and DMA, and electrochemical characterization, including impedance measurements and cell testing. This research will be complemented by collaborations and interactions with polymer physicists, electrochemical and building technology experts, whose research is also focused on developing high-performance polymeric materials for energy storage and building envelop.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
- Design and synthesis of well-defined polymers via various polymerization techniques, like free radical polymerization, cationic polymerization, ATRP and RAFT, along with end group modification of commercially available polymers.
- Synthesis and characterization of organic molecules, such as well-defined electrolytes and monomers.
- Characterization of monomers and polymers by standard methods, including NMR, GPC, TGA, DSC, etc.
- Electrochemical analysis of electrolytes and single-ion conducting polymers.
- Mechanical property test of polymeric materials by DMA and Rheometer.
- Study the structure-property relationships of synthetic polymers, including electrochemical stability, ionic conductivity and mechanical properties, using various techniques.
- Responsible for presenting and reporting research results and publishing scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
- Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
- Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
Basic Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering or closely related fields completed in the last 5 years
- Experience in polymer synthesis and characterization
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge and expertise in electrochemical analysis and battery testing.
- Knowledge and expertise in polymer morphology and their characterization techniques such as SAXS, SANS and TEM.
- Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently to accomplish project goals
- Knowledge and expertise in high pressure synthesis.
- Participate creatively in solving problems and refining projects directions
- Work collaboratively in a team environment and interact effectively with a broad range of colleagues
- An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Safety conscious
sincerely
Pengfei Cao
R&D Staff, Polymer Scientist
Chemical Science Division
Oak Ridge National Lab.