Neutron Scattering Instrument Scientist

Requisition Id 14079 

Overview:    

We are looking for a Neutron Scattering Instrument Scientist to join the team at the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR), focusing on our suite of neutron triple-axis spectrometers. In this role, you will support the current cold neutron triple-axis spectrometer (CTAX) and lead the project to replace it with the MANTA spectrometer, a modernized cold triple-axis instrument. 

You will ensure safe and effective operation of CTAX (and later MANTA), provide hands-on support to users, and facilitate experiments in a range of scientific fields. Additionally, you will lead the MANTA upgrade project, including planning, design, and commissioning efforts to integrate the instrument into HFIR’s re-optimized cold guide hall after upcoming maintenance. 

This position resides in the Triple Axis Spectroscopy Group in the Spectroscopy Section, Neutron Scattering Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

Successful candidates will be selected via a panel interview process. If this position is of interest to you and you meet the basic qualifications below, please apply.  

Major Duties/Responsibilities:   

• Act as a local contact, supporting users with experimental setup, data acquisition, and providing analyzable data when feasible. 

• Lead the development of a modern cold triple-axis spectrometer, contributing to all phases from planning through commissioning. 

• Conduct high-impact research in neutron scattering, build national and international collaborations, and publish findings in scientific journals. 

• Expand the neutron scattering user community by attracting both a broad range of users and those with interests related to your research area. 

• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements 

• Ensure an inclusive work environment for a diverse community of users, staff, postdocs, and students. 

• As a member of the ORNL scientific community, you will be expected to commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct. Our full code of conduct and a statement by the Lab Director's office can be found here: https://www.ornl.gov/content/research-integrity. 

• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by encouraging a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.  

Basic Qualifications: 

• A PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, or related field. 

• One or more years of relevant work experience beyond PhD. (We encourage applications from all experience levels and will hire commensurate with the applicant’s years of experience.) 

• A strong record of research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Previous research experience in fields such as condensed matter physics or energy materials. 

• Experience with neutron and/or x-ray diffraction, spectroscopy, and scattering instrumentation design. 

• Prior beamline support experience in a neutron or x-ray user facility. 

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with scientists, technical support personnel, and researchers, including graduate students, post-doctoral researchers, and professionals from academia and industry. 

Special Requirements:  

• Please provide a list of publications when applying for this position.  

• If you are selected for interview, you may be required to submit a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation.  

Benefits at ORNL:   

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for 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, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available for certain positions. 

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

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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.