The Applied Materials Division (AMD) at Argonne National Laboratory conducts applied research to develop sustainable innovative technologies to improve the efficiency of resource and energy utilization; to minimize our dependence on imported energy; and to enhance our national security. A research and development position is now open in the Materials Recycling R&D Group. 

A post doc position is now open in the Materials Recycling R&D Group. This position is focused on battery recycling R&D but may include plastics and metals materials recovery and separation for recycling. The successful candidate will join a team developing and testing material separations and recycling operations and will help contribute to that team. The successful candidate is not required to have but would benefit from a good understanding of lithium-ion battery systems and performance characteristics, and/or recycling operations for plastics and metals. The work will involve R&D on a broad range of separation technologies as well as pilot plant design, installation, and operation. Experience in battery direct recycling and hydro/pyro-based recycling processes a plus. Additionally, some work may include cathode synthesis. Due to the chemical and mechanical nature of the processes being worked on, mechanical aptness is very helpful to be successful in this position. 

Position Requirements

Recent or soon-to-be-completed PhD (typically completed within the last 0-5 years) in engineering, chemistry, or similar degrees.

Understanding of lithium-ion batteries and how they work.

Understanding of the materials used to make lithium-ion batteries.

Knowledge of materials separation equipment and techniques.

Ability to work with hand tools and building/adapting equipment.

Ability to work well within a team as well as alone.

Abilities in oral and written communication.

Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.

Ability to make our laboratory a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment where all can thrive.

This position requires an on-site presence at the Argonne campus in Lemont, Illinois five days per week.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of metallurgical separation technologies.

Experience with equipment installations and start-up/debug.

Experience in process development and plant design.

Job Family

Postdoctoral

Job Profile

Postdoctoral Appointee

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $70,758.00 - $110,379.55.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

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