Postdoctoral Research Associate - Neutron Scattering and Quantum Materials

Requisition Id 12994 

Overview:  

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on scientific projects to advance our understanding of quantum materials, primarily using neutron scattering techniques. This position resides in the Direct Geometry Group in the Spectroscopy Section, Neutron Scattering Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

As a postdoctoral fellow you will work as part of a team whose interests include, but are not limited to, quantum spin liquid materials, fractional magnetic excitations, phase transitions, reduced dimensionality and strongly correlated materials. Your core research will involve performing elastic, inelastic and polarized neutron measurements on powder and single crystal materials using the world leading neutron scattering instruments at the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) at ORNL. Additionally, you will collaborate with colleagues at the Quantum Science Center located at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. This position represents an excellent opportunity to study quantum matter in a stimulating multidisciplinary environment at ORNL.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Perform neutron scattering experiments and analyze resulting data to understand quantum materials.
• Publish scientific papers and present results from this research at national and international meetings as appropriate.
• Contribute to the development of neutron scattering techniques for studying quantum materials.
• 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:

• PhD in physics, materials science, or related discipline completed within the last five years.
• Background in one or more of neutron scattering, X-ray scattering, or experimental condensed matter physics.
• Solid background in quantum physics, magnetism, and condensed matter physics.
• A strong record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with neutron scattering methods to study quantum materials.
• Experience with experimental condensed matter physics at low temperatures.
• Experience with computational methods and data analysis.
• Self-motivated, with the ability to work within a multi-disciplinary team environment on scientifically challenging problems.

Special Requirements:

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.

Please provide a current curriculum vitae including a list of publications when applying for this position.

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

Benefits at ORNL:  

ORNL offers 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.

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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov or call 1.866.963.9545.

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.