In support of its primary missions in energy and the environment, ORNL maintains a strong commitment to both basic and applied science and their engineering applications. This research advances fundamental knowledge while providing a foundation for the major scientific and technological development efforts that are carried out for DOE and other federal and nonfederal sponsors. Early in 1992, ORNL announced a new and expanded Postdoctoral Research Associates Program. This action further strengthened the laboratory's long-standing commitment to excellence in research while contributing to the development of the new Ph.D. scientists and engineers on whom the future of the nation's research and development enterprise depends. The ORNL Postdoctoral Research Associates Program is a highly selective program and offers challenging opportunities to recent recipients of doctoral degrees to conduct research in areas that support ORNL missions in the basic and applied sciences, energy, and environment.
Appointments are available in all current research and development programs at the laboratory.
The emphasis on a research mentoring approach allows postdoctoral appointees to become integral members of ORNL research and development teams. They gain exposure to current national issues in science and technology, have an opportunity to share and exchange innovative ideas and techniques, and make significant contributions to ORNL programs. Depending on the nature of research and availability of funding, postdoctoral researchers are encouraged to publish and present research findings and write funding proposals as part of a research team to enhance their own professional development. A large percentage of participants gain permanent employment as a result of their experience in the ORNL Postdoctoral Research Associates Program. Appointees become full-time temporary employees of ORAU and are eligible for a variety of benefits.