Research Associate - Electrochemical Energy Storage

The Chemistry Division invites applications for a two-year term Research Associate position in the Electrochemical Energy Storage (EES) Group. The successful candidate will contribute to advanced battery research through materials development and characterization.

Initial 2-year term appointment subject to renewal contingent on performance and funding.

The appointee will conduct research in one or more of the following areas: sulfur, sodium, and lithium batteries. In addition to experimental research, the candidate is expected to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) approaches to accelerate materials discovery and optimization. A key component of the role includes correlating materials design with physical, chemical, and mechanical properties using advanced characterization techniques.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Research Associate will conduct independent and collaborative research on sulfur, sodium, and lithium battery systems within the EES Group. Responsibilities include designing and synthesizing electrode and electrolyte materials, performing electrochemical evaluations, and conducting advanced structural and chemical characterization using state-of-the-art techniques. The candidate will integrate AI and ML approaches to accelerate materials discovery and data-driven optimization. The position also involves coordinating research activities with academic and industrial collaborators, preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and presenting results at scientific conferences and DOE program review meetings.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• A PhD degree in relevant fields (including but not limited to Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Material Science and Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering).
• Industry or research experience (including doctoral research) in rechargeable battery systems.
• Demonstrated research expertise in at least one of these areas: sulfur, sodium, and lithium batteries, supported by a strong publication record.
• Demonstrated experience applying AI and/or machine learning methods to battery materials development.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills for scientific publications and presentations.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience in synthesis of battery materials.
• Skilled in advanced characterization techniques, including synchrotron, neutron, and electron-based methods.
• Experience in pouch cell fabrication and testing.

Environmental, Health & Safety Requirements:

Essential functions such as: lifting of 30 pounds; the ability to run a 1/2 mile; successfully pass a stress test, climb a ladder or more, etc.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Candidates must have received a Ph.D. by the commencement of employment.
• BNL policy requires that after obtaining their PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.
• Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $75,000 - $83,000 / year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.