[Neutron] ORNL: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Lignocellulose Structure and Deconstruction / NB50568288

[McCormick, B. Logan]

ORNL Publications

External Publication
Job Posting Title

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Lignocellulose Structure and Deconstruction / NB50568288

Posted Date
05/16/2016

End Posting Date
06/16/2016

Purpose
The Neutron Sciences Directorate (NScD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) operates the High Flux Isotope Reactor
(HFIR), the United States' highest flux reactor based neutron source, and the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS), the world's
most intense pulsed accelerator based neutron source. Together these facilities operate 30 instruments for neutron scattering
research, each year carrying out in excess of 1,000 experiments in the physical, chemical, materials, biological and medical
sciences for more than 3,000 visiting scientists. HFIR also provides unique facilities for isotope production and neutron
irradiation. To learn more about Neutron Sciences at ORNL go to: http://neutrons.ornl.gov.

Purpose:
Lignocellulose comprises the vast majority of plant matter and could be a major source of future fuels if conversion to
bio-ethanol can be made cost- and energy-efficient. The deconstruction processes of this complex multi-component material
needs improved efficiency and this project aims at paving the way by establishing a comprehensive fundamental
understanding of lignocellulose structure and structural changes during chemical and enzymatic lignocellulose
deconstruction. Neutron scattering provides unique avenues in the study of structure and dynamics over many length scales
from the atomic to the micrometer regime on multi-component materials through application of isotope labeling and neutron
contrast variation. New world-leading neutron scattering instrumentation at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and will provide
unprecedented opportunities for advancing our knowledge about these multi-component, multi-length scale biological
materials. The successful candidate will join a multi-disciplinary research team of bio-physicists and chemists and you will be
expected to actively conduct independent and collaborative neutron scattering experiments at the ORNL neutron scattering
facilities; analyze neutron scattering data; use X-ray scattering and diffraction as complementary techniques; publish
research results in scientific journals; and maintain strong communication within an interdisciplinary team of scientists such
as coordinate with biochemists on sample preparation and computational scientists on data modeling and interpretation. This
post is an excellent opportunity for young postdoctoral scientist to develop his/her expertise, broaden his/her experience and
interact with leading scientists from around the world.

Major Duties/Responsibilities
Conduct independent and collaborative neutron scattering experiments at the ORNL neutron scattering facilities
* Analyze neutron scattering data
* Use X-ray scattering and diffraction as complementary techniques;
* Publish research results in scientific journals
* Maintain strong communication within an interdisciplinary team of scientists such as coordinating with biochemists on
sample preparation and computational scientists on data modeling and interpretation.
* Present scientific results at appropriate national and international conferences
* Physical requirements for this job include the use of hand and eye protection gear, kneeling, sitting for extended periods of
time, extensive work at biological and chemical laboratories, and possible exposure to ionization radiation normally
associated with operation of neutron scattering instruments for scientific research.

Qualifications Required
A Ph.D. in biophysics or structural biology. Candidates with a Ph.D. in related fields such as physics, physical chemistry or
similar, who have relevant experience in biological structure research will also be considered. Previous experience in either
neutron or X-ray scattering is required. The date of application must be within 5 years of the most recent degree, and all
degree requirements must be complete before starting the appointment. Certain exceptions may be considered. This position
is a temporary, full-time assignment of 24 months.
Excellent written and oral communications skills are required along with the desire to work in a team environment on
scientifically challenging problems. Acquiring knowledge of related safety issues, regulations, and safe practices will be
required. Applicants cannot have received the most recent degree more than five years prior to the date of application and
must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment.

Qualifications Desired:
Candidates with experience in applying small-angle scattering methods to biological macromolecular complexes are highly
encouraged to apply. Candidates should be self-motivated, have good interpersonal, communication and presentational
skills and demonstrated ability to interact effectively with staff at all levels and to work within a multi-disciplinary team.
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), Excel(.xls, .xlsx), PowerPoint(.ppt, .pptx), Adobe(.pdf), Rich Text Format(.rtf), HTML(.htm,
.hmtl) and text files(.txt) up to 2MB 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.
If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting at ornl.gov<mailto:ORNLRecruiting at ornl.gov>.

Notice: If the position requires a Security Clearance, reviews and tests for the absence of any illegal drug as defined in 10
CFR 707.4 will be conducted by the employer and a background investigation by the Federal government may be required
to obtain an access authorization prior to employment and subsequent reinvestigations may be required.
If the position is covered by the Counterintelligence Evaluation Program regulations at 10 CFR 709, a counterintelligence
evaluation may include a counterintelligence-scope polygraph examination.

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.
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