Neutron Scattering Scientist

Overview:    

We are seeking a Neutron Scattering Scientist who will work as a team member within the suite of neutron direct geometry spectrometers at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS).  The suite includes the two thermal and epithermal spectrometers and two cold spectrometers with one capable of full polarization analysis. 

These instruments support a diverse science community attracting scientists from all over the world conducting world-class research in physical, chemical, and materials sciences. More details about the instruments and their scientific impact can be found at https://neutrons.ornl.gov/arcs, https://neutrons.ornl.gov/cncs, https://neutrons.ornl.gov/hyspec, and https://neutrons.ornl.gov/sequoia. 

In this role you will support one of the spectrometers and be tasked with developing a leading scientific program focused on neutron scattering. You will be championing developments on the instrument with sample environments, as well as the software, to maintain and further develop the instrument’s performance and to expand the user base.  

A key component of your role is to ensure safe operation and user support of the beamlines. You will act as a local contact for users, including helping with experimental setup, data acquisition and data analysis. You will have the opportunity to work with users on a wide range of science topics covered by the instruments. It is expected that you pursue your own research program, focusing on neutron scattering capabilities. 

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

Major Duties/Responsibilities:   

• Pursue a high-quality personal research program using neutron spectroscopy, build national and international collaborations, and publish research results in scientific journals. 

• Assist users as a local contact for experimental setup and data acquisition, participate in user education as appropriate, and ensure users are provided with analyzable data when possible.  

• Pursue developments in instrumentation, sample environment, and software to help maintain and further advance the performance of the instrument suite. 

• Attract new users, both broadly and from areas related to your own research, to expand the user community and the impact of neutron scattering in the physical, chemical, and material sciences. 

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

• 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 equal opportunity by fostering 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. 

• A minimum of 1 year of related 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 spectroscopy and related analysis 

• Experience with neutron and/or X-ray diffraction 

• Experience with other spectroscopic techniques (Raman, Mössbauer, etc.)  

• Previous beamline support experience in a neutron or synchrotron X-ray user facility  

• Demonstrated ability to work with other technical and scientific support groups 

• Demonstrated ability to work with graduate students, post-doctoral researchers, and other research scientists from both academia and/or industry 

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:
For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.  Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.  This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year.  This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment.  Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. 

Benefits at ORNL: