Post Doctorate Research Associate – Process Modeling and Analysis

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, flexible work schedules and telework options. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or 3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.OverviewOur expert staff provide multi-disciplinary solutions to complex energy and environmental issues. Key capabilities include science (chemical and mechanical). We employ a systems perspective that includes, discovery technology development and scale-up as well as economic, regulatory, and market acceptance issues necessary for successful technology commercialization. EP&MD focuses on three mission contributions: Clean Fossil Energy, Electricity Infrastructure, & Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.ResponsibilitiesThe Advanced Energy Systems Group (AES) is focused on applied research and development in the areas of chemical conversions, applied advanced materials, and the development of novel processes. The AES group is currently seeking a Post-Doctorate in Process Modeling and Analysis to contribute to a broad base of research and development, including thermochemical and biochemical conversions of biomass to biofuels, advanced separations, and carbon capture. Process models, economic evaluations and sustainability assessments are developed and used to make recommendations to PNNL projects, industrial partners, and DOE. The performance and economic models range from unit operations to full systems (e.g. conceptual commercial-scale biorefinery flowsheets). Chemcad and Aspen Plus® are the primary flowsheet development tools used. Oral and written reporting of research results is expected with a focus toward publications in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at conferences. Additional responsibilities include the following:Frequent and effective interaction with PNNL staff to describe specific process and economic research goals.

Supporting projects or tasks, with the responsibility for designing, conducting, and reporting analysis results.

Preparing and presenting complex technical reports.

Work independently, take initiative, and work on team projects.

QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:A strong fundamental theoretical understanding of kinetics, process design, heat and mass transfer, chemical separations, and thermodynamics.

Experience with life-cycle analyses (LCA) of chemicals, fuels, and/or renewable energy products is desired.

A strong process engineering background. Industrial experience is desirable but not required.

Comprehensive experience with process flowsheet modeling for process development and/or system economics projections, preferably using Aspen Plus® and/or Chemcad.

A demonstrated ability to effectively plan, perform, and communicate scientific research; with demonstrated ability to conduct original scientific research and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.

Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentNot applicable.Additional InformationNot applicable.Testing Designated PositionNot applicable.Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment OpportunityOur laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at hr@pnnl.gov .Drug Free WorkplacePNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.Mandatory RequirementsBattelle requires employees to have a COVID-19 vaccine as a condition of employment, subject to accommodation. Applicants are required to disclose their vaccination status following a conditional offer of employment and must attest to being fully vaccinated with a Center for Disease Control (CDC)-approved COVID-19 vaccination, or provide documentation of need for medical or religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination requirement.