Research Scientist jobs at Idaho National Lab

Energy Economics Postdoctoral Research Associate - (23501) Description The Decision Sciences Department at Idaho National Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate with a strong background in economics and specialization in the areas of finance and firm decision-making. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research to enable more robust decision making related to U. S. energy system transformation. You will work in a multidisciplinary team applying advanced modeling techniques to address topics in nuclear energy, energy supply chains, critical materials, and critical infrastructure. The role integrates financial and risk analysis with systems modeling to support strategic decision-making and policy evaluation. Responsibilities Include:Conduct financial and risk analysis to assess market trends, pricing strategies, and investment opportunities in supply chain systems. Develop and apply economic models to forecast market behavior and evaluate policy impacts. Collaborate with researchers across disciplines to integrate economic insights into technical models. Lead and contribute to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and stakeholder presentations. Support proposal development and project planning. Qualifications REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Ph. D. in Economics, Finance, Operations Research, Systems Engineering, or a related field (completed within the past 5 years). Demonstrated proficiency conducting quantitative analysis, statistics, and programming (Python, R, Excel, or other language). Experience in financial economics, industrial organization, or techno-economic assessment. Strong communication skills and a developing publication record. DESIRED QUALIFICIATIONS: Familiarity with energy market structures and regulatory frameworks. Experience with machine learning tools. Job Information:The pay range for this position is $101,196. 00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials. Physical RequirementsWhile performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment. 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 without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Benefits and Relocation Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts Paid time off (personal leave) Comprehensive Relocation PackageBenefit eligibility subject 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 MissionOur mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure. INL VisionOur vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure. Selective Service RequirementsTo 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 OpportunityIdaho 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 AccommodationWe 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 InformationWhen 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. INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited. Primary Location: US-ID-Idaho FallsJob: PostdocOrganization: Energy & Environment Science & Technology (Bxxx) Schedule: Full-time Employee Status: RegularJob Posting: Dec 12, 2025, 12:36:54 PMUnposting Date: Dec 20, 2025, 1:59:00 AMRELOCATION: Position Relocation EligibleTELEWORK: On-Site Worker

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Electrocatalysis Modeling Postdoctoral Research Associate in Chemical Engineering or comparable discipline for the Hydrogen and Electrochemistry Department. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off. This postdoctoral researcher will focus on performing research and development activities associated with artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning, and state-of-the-art computational tools (density functional theory, molecular dynamics, photon calculation, catalysis microkinetic analysis, multiscale molecular modeling, computational fluid dynamics, etc.) to study systems across diverse time and length scales for electrochemical processing and electrocatalysis. Specifically, this position will conduct and lead computational characterization and development efforts supporting new electrochemical approaches to hydrogen generation, chemical and fuel synthesis, among other applications. Responsibilities Include: * Leads and contributes to INL's hydrogen program as well as other related projects. * Supports the identification of new research opportunities, contributes to the direction of technical teams, can respond to research opportunities, and assists in the generation of technical proposals and securing funding for research activities. * In consultation with PI, will establish research plans and experimental designs for research projects/programs. Assimilates and interprets laboratory data and employs knowledge, training, and experience to develop conclusions and theories. * Serves as a technical resource to others and a liaison to other departments and external collaborators. * Serves as both a generator and a contributor to the generation of reports, publications, proposals and intellectual property. * Represents the department to sponsors and peers at program review, technical symposia, and other interface situations. * Maintains frequent internal customer contacts, may have interface external to INL. * Assists and supports department business planning and marketing efforts. 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 other team members and peers. The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings. Minimum Requirements: * PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years * PhD in chemical engineering or comparable disciplines * Experience with Machine Learning Potential (MLP) frameworks including Allegro, FLARE, RuNNer * Experience with applying Density Functional Theory (DFT) Code such as VASP, CP2K * Ability to conduct Large Scale Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulations with LAMMPS * Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English Preferred Experience: * Familiarity with phonon calculations using Phonopy. * Experience conducting catalysis microkinetic analyses with CatMAP. * Proficient in multiscale molecular modeling using Materials Studio. * Strong programming skills in Python, with applications in computational modeling. * Hands-on experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations using tools such as STAR-CCM . etc. Job Information: * The pay range for this position is $101,196.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials. Physical Requirements While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment. 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 without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Benefits and Relocation * Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts * 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match * Paid time off (personal leave) * Employee Education Program (tuition assistance) * Comprehensive Relocation Package * Benefit eligibility subject 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 ************ 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. INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.

Nuclear Fuel Performance Postdoctoral Research Associate - (23421) Description Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate to support national fuel development and qualification efforts within the Fuel Development, Performance and Qualification department. The successful candidate will focus on analyzing experimental data from irradiated fuels and materials to understand performance and degradation mechanisms. While microscopy may be used on an as-needed basis, the primary focus is on interpreting post-irradiation examination (PIE) data and integrating findings into fuel performance models. The role offers opportunities to contribute to national research programs and collaborate with industry partners. Roles and Responsibilities:Analyze PIE data to identify irradiation-induced changes in fuels and structural materials Correlate experimental observations with thermomechanical behavior and fuel performance Support the development of data-driven insights to inform fuel qualification strategies Conduct microscopy-based characterization (e. g. , SEM, TEM, FIB) as needed to support data interpretation Collaborate with modeling teams to integrate experimental results into simulation frameworks Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and present findings at conferences Engage with multidisciplinary teams across national labs, academia, and industry Qualifications Minimum Requirements:Ph. D. in Nuclear Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years Experience analyzing experimental data related to irradiated materials or nuclear fuels Understanding of irradiation effects, materials degradation, or fuel behavior under extreme conditions Preferred Experience:Background in fuel performance modeling or materials degradation mechanisms Experience conducting beamline experiments (electron, ion, synchrotron, or neutron) for imaging, scattering, or diffraction Familiarity with microscopy techniques (SEM, TEM, FIB) Strong publication record and ability to work in collaborative research environments Job Information:The pay range for this position is $101,196. 00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials. Physical RequirementsWhile performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate 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 accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions Benefits and RelocationMedical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending AccountsPaid time off (personal leave) Comprehensive Relocation PackageBenefit eligibility subject 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 MissionOur mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure. INL VisionOur vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure. Selective Service RequirementsTo 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 OpportunityIdaho 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 AccommodationWe 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 InformationWhen 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. INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited. Primary Location: US-ID-Idaho FallsJob: PostdocOrganization: Nuclear Science & Technology (Cxxx) Schedule: Full-time Employee Status: RegularJob Posting: Nov 26, 2025, 1:55:22 PMUnposting Date: Dec 22, 2025, 1:59:00 AMRELOCATION: Position Relocation EligibleTELEWORK: On-Site Worker

Electrocatalysis Modeling Postdoctoral Research Associate - (23371) Description Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Electrocatalysis Modeling Postdoctoral Research Associate in Chemical Engineering or comparable discipline for the Hydrogen and Electrochemistry Department. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off. This postdoctoral researcher will focus on performing research and development activities associated with artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning, and state-of-the-art computational tools (density functional theory, molecular dynamics, photon calculation, catalysis microkinetic analysis, multiscale molecular modeling, computational fluid dynamics, etc. ) to study systems across diverse time and length scales for electrochemical processing and electrocatalysis. Specifically, this position will conduct and lead computational characterization and development efforts supporting new electrochemical approaches to hydrogen generation, chemical and fuel synthesis, among other applications. Responsibilities Include:Leads and contributes to INL's hydrogen program as well as other related projects. Supports the identification of new research opportunities, contributes to the direction of technical teams, can respond to research opportunities, and assists in the generation of technical proposals and securing funding for research activities. In consultation with PI, will establish research plans and experimental designs for research projects/programs. Assimilates and interprets laboratory data and employs knowledge, training, and experience to develop conclusions and theories. Serves as a technical resource to others and a liaison to other departments and external collaborators. Serves as both a generator and a contributor to the generation of reports, publications, proposals and intellectual property. Represents the department to sponsors and peers at program review, technical symposia, and other interface situations. Maintains frequent internal customer contacts, may have interface external to INL. Assists and supports department business planning and marketing efforts. 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 other team members and peers. The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings. Qualifications Minimum Requirements: PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years PhD in chemical engineering or comparable disciplines Experience with Machine Learning Potential (MLP) frameworks including Allegro, FLARE, RuNNerExperience with applying Density Functional Theory (DFT) Code such as VASP, CP2KAbility to conduct Large Scale Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulations with LAMMPSDemonstrated oral and published written communication skills in EnglishPreferred Experience: Familiarity with phonon calculations using Phonopy. Experience conducting catalysis microkinetic analyses with CatMAP. Proficient in multiscale molecular modeling using Materials Studio. Strong programming skills in Python, with applications in computational modeling. Hands-on experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations using tools such as STAR-CCM+. etc. Job Information:The pay range for this position is $101,196. 00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials. Physical RequirementsWhile performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment. 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 without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Benefits and Relocation Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts 401(k) with a 4. 2% employer contribution and up to 4. 8% match Paid time off (personal leave) Employee Education Program (tuition assistance) Comprehensive Relocation PackageBenefit eligibility subject 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 MissionOur mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure. INL VisionOur vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure. Selective Service RequirementsTo 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 OpportunityIdaho 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 AccommodationWe 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 InformationWhen 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. INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited. Primary Location: US-ID-Idaho FallsJob: PostdocOrganization: Energy & Environment Science & Technology (Bxxx) Schedule: Full-time Employee Status: RegularJob Posting: Nov 13, 2025, 5:32:24 PMUnposting Date: Dec 15, 2025, 1:59:00 AMRELOCATION: Position Relocation EligibleTELEWORK: On-Site Worker