Postdoctoral researcher
The Material Measurement Laboratory (MML), part of the National Institute of
Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking a Post-Doctoral Researcher (U.S.
Citizens preferred) to support the Circular Economy program and critical minerals
recovery research. The successful candidate will develop analytical methods for
quantifying the elemental composition of mixed lithium battery waste (e.g., black mass)
using ICP-OES. This role involves validating characterization processes and improving
supply chains for critical materials/minerals.
This opportunity is for an associate researcher position in the NIST
MML for 1 to 2 years, with the option to renew and/or pursue longer-term federal
employment pending funding availability. Associate researchers are NOT Federal
Employees, but they work alongside NIST researchers and with NIST’s often world-
class instrumentation.
Lithium Battery Recycling
- Education: PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a
related field. - Technical Expertise: Proven experience with ICP-OES and acid digestion is
required (> 3yrs.). - Soft Skills: Excellent written/oral communication and a track record of meeting
milestones in multidisciplinary teams. - Safety & Environment: Must be comfortable working with large volumes of
hazardous chemicals and under radiological conditions. - U.S. Citizens Preferred
- Method Development: Establish bulk and trace analytical quantification methods
for battery waste using ICP-OES and/or neutron activation. - Sample Preparation: Perform milling, grinding, and acid digestion of complex
battery materials and associated reference materials. - Data Analysis: Execute measurements, interpret complex datasets, and validate
results against industry standards. - Communication: Prepare findings for peer-reviewed publications, technical
reports, and oral presentations. - Compliance: Maintain strict adherence to institutional safety requirements,
including radiological and hazardous chemical protocols.