Post Doctorate Research Associate - Engineering Data Scientist

The Environmental/Integrated Sensors teams within the Earth System Predictability & Resiliency Group of ESSD is seeking candidates to lead key tasks and support interdisciplinary projects including:

1) developing advanced sensing systems for earth system science and renewable energy. These next-generation sensors are not only fast, accurate, and versatile in terms of system performance but also lightweight, small, and soft. They can also be adapted for challenging environments such as deep subsurface and the Arctic environments, as well as for chemical detection.

2) developing advanced energy-harvesting systems for small sensors/transmitters as well as remote sensing platforms.

3) studying the environmental impact of conventional hydropower and marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy systems by detecting and tracking fish or other animals in the river or ocean using underwater acoustic telemetry.

The primary scope of this position includes advanced sensor design, signal acquisition, data processing and algorithm development in laboratory settings and field environment, generation of intellectual properties, and writing of high-impact papers.

• 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., * Candidates received a PhD degree in data science, artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) with strong engineering application or PhD in engineering field with strong AI/ML and data science application.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience developing, training, and deploying AI/ML models (e.g., deep learning, physics-informed neural networks (PINNs), surrogate modeling, or predictive analytics) to solve physical and engineering problems.
• Strong proficiency in statistics, numerical modeling (e.g., Finite Element Methods), and high-performance computing.
• Strong understanding of earth systems processes and interrogative sensing. techniques to inform environmental conditions.
• Extensive experience with programming languages, including C/C++, Python, and R.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams, and meet project milestones.
• Strong communication skills for presenting complex scientific and engineering concepts, research results, and broader impacts to technical and nontechnical stakeholders.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.

As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.

Minimum Salary

USD $69,000.00/Yr.

Maximum Salary

USD $119,100.00/Yr.

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.

Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.

The Energy and Environment Directorate delivers science and technology solutions for the nation’s biggest energy and environmental challenges. Our more than 1,700 staff support the Department of Energy (DOE), delivering on key DOE mission areas including: modernizing our nation’s power grid to maintain a reliable, affordable, secure, and resilient electricity delivery infrastructure; research, development, validation, and effective utilization of renewable energy and efficiency technologies that improve the affordability, reliability, resiliency, and security of the American energy system; and resolving complex issues in nuclear science, energy, and environmental management.

The Earth Systems Science Division, part of the Energy and Environment Directorate, provides leadership and solutions that advance Earth system opportunities for energy systems and national security. We are a multidisciplinary division connected by a shared commitment to innovate and collaborate towards solving complex problems in the dynamic Earth system., 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, and flexible work schedules. 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., Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.