Postdoc Research Associate - Quantum Materials Synthesis and Characterization, AI-Enabled Automation

Requisition Id 14566 

­­Overview:  

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance the synthesis and characterization of novel quantum and functional materials. The position combines condensed matter physics approaches with cutting-edge AI/ML methods to gain deep fundamental understanding of new materials. The successful candidate will develop new materials systems including thin films, 2D materials, and hybrid architectures using advanced synthesis techniques (PLD, CVD, Sputtering). Your emphasis will be on the development and characterization of phenomena in novel crystalline materials relevant to applications in microelectronics, quantum information, ion transport, catalysis, etc. A key focus is leveraging in situ and operando characterization methods, particularly optical and electron spectroscopy, to understand fundamental physical mechanisms governing material properties and growth. The position offers unique opportunities to develop automated synthesis platforms that integrate real-time diagnostics (RHEED, XPS/XPD, Raman) with AI/ML approaches for autonomous materials discovery and optimization.

This will be a highly collaborative position that provides access to facilities and expertise in state-of-the-art nanofabrication, electron and scanning probe microscopy, and theory/modelling/computation at the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, as well as to the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS).

This position resides in the Functional Hybrid Nanomaterials Group in the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Synthesize novel correlated and topological quantum materials using advanced thin film deposition techniques.
• Characterize electronic, structural, and magnetic properties utilizing a suite of in-house characterization tools.
• Lead user proposals to gain access to beamline-based approaches at DOE facilities for x-ray spectroscopy (XPS/XMCD/XMLD) and neutron reflectometry.
• Focus on new materials design linking experimental data with machine learning strategies.
• Assist staff in harnessing emerging AI and LLM technologies for automated synthesis, characterization, and analysis applications.
• Dissemination of scientific results in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in Condensed Matter Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related science discipline completed within the last 5 years.
• A strong background in thin film synthesis, device prototyping, or development of synthesis/characterization automation with experience in crystalline film synthesis.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A strong record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at major conferences.
• Familiarity with numerical data analysis and customization of control software (Python, Labview, etc.).
• Experience with the use of nanofabrication techniques, dilution refrigerator, PPMS, XRD, SQUID, XPS, scanning probes, soft x-rays, and neutrons.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:

Postdocs:

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Letters of Recommendation:

Please submit two letters of reference when applying to this position. You can upload these directly to your application or have them sent to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

 Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

• Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
• View Profile
• Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.