Research - Nuclear Structure and Nuclear Astrophysics

Requisition Id16053

The Physics Divion at Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a Research Staff Scientist to join the Nuclear Structure Astrophysics Group in support of the Nuclear Structure and Nuclear Astrophysics research program.

• Conduct original independent research on the physics of exotic nuclei.
• Provide technical leadership for conceptualization, design, set-up, and performance of experiments in nuclear structure and nuclear astrophysics at national and international accelerator facilities, with emphasis on FRIB and ATLAS.
• Develop instrumentation and analysis techniques to support these experimental efforts.
• Contribute to the development of ML/AI tools for nuclear physics and nuclear data applications.
• Publish papers, reports, and act as Principal Investigator on new proposals and projects.
• Directly supervise other professionals, technical support staff, and or students.
• Deliver presentations of original work to Division and Lab Management as well as the broader scientific community.
• Contribute to the broader goals of the Nuclear Structure and Nuclear Astrophysics Group, the Physics Division and ORNL.
• 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.

• PhD in nuclear physics or related field.
• 5 years of experience in a relevant research field beyond PhD.
• Extensive knowledge in low‑energy nuclear physics.
• Ability to analyze data from nuclear physics experiments.
• Preference will be given to candidates who have experience analyzing complex data sets from gamma‑ray arrays, such as GRETINA, and charged particle‑detectors, such as GODDESS.

• Demonstrated productivity in terms of peer‑reviewed publications and scientific presentations.
• Recognized as a resource or active impact contributor in own field as perceived internally by management and peers and externally through conference presentations, publications in referred journals, invited lectures, and awards.
• Capable of leading independent research and development work.
• Ability to interact professionally with staff within the Division, Laboratory, and at other laboratories, including Physicists and Engineers.
• 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.

This is a full‑time position, with an initial appointment of two years supported by a strategic hire LDRD and expected to transition to a permanent appointment based on performance and funding.

Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter outlining research interests and qualifications
• A full curriculum vitae
• Contact information for three references

• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD‑12 PIV badge.
• For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required.
• Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD‑12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post‑employment background investigation.
• To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

• If you have not resided in the…