We have an opening for a Materials Testing Staff Scientist to conduct research in the following areas: mechanical, rheological, and thermal tests of polymer materials, including rubbery viscoelastomers, thermoplastics, thermosets, and composites thereof. You will set-up and execute accelerated aging studies, including design and validation of appropriate aging fixtures. This position is in the Materials Science Division.

In this role you will

• Perform moderately complex to complex mechanical and rheological testing of polymer materials and polymer material composites with methods such as load frame testing and rotational rheometry.
• Characterize dynamic and quasi-static deformation behavior of various samples and geometries (e.g., tensile, compression, and bending behavior).
• Perform thermal analysis with, for example, methods such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermomechanical analysis (TMA).
• Design, test and validate fixtures (e.g., compression fixtures, environmental cells) for accelerated and long-term aging studies of polymer materials.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers in a multidisciplinary team environment, including collaborations external to the organization, to accomplish research goals.
• Maintain and establish laboratory protocols.
• Prepare written analyses, verbal briefings, and other products that capture and communicate research results.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Bachelor of Science degree in polymer science, materials engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, or related field, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Broad experience with mechanical (e.g., load frame) and rheological testing of polymer materials, including characterization of dynamic and quasistatic deformation behavior
• Experience with polymer material thermal analysis, with methods such as DSC and/or TMA.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills as reflected by effective presentations such as seminars and lectures and written reports or articles.
• Ability to work independently on defined research projects.
• The willingness and ability to collaborate on multidisciplinary teams as needed to meet research goals.

Qualifications We Desire

• Master's degree in polymer science, materials engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering or a related field.
• Experience with lever-arm load frame testers (i.e., creep testers).
• Experience with AutoCAD or other mechanical drawing software.
• Advanced proficiency in polymer chemistry, materials science, and/or polymer processing, as demonstrated by significant coursework in these subjects.