Postdoctoral Research Associate - Scanning Probe Microscopy for ferroics multiscale dynamics

Requisition Id 13767 

Overview: 

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on advanced scanning probe microscopy to study the dynamics of ferroic systems ( ferroelectric and ferroelastic materials) under different external stimuli such as electric fields, light and strain. This position resides in the Functional Atomic Force Microscopy (FAFM) group in the Nanomaterials Characterization Section, Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), Physical Science Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

As part of our research team, you will investigate the functional properties of ferroic systems integrated in heterostructures and devices for microelectronic applications, their characteristic topological configurations, e.g., domains and domain walls, and how they dynamically behave under light, electrical, or strain stimuli. You will utilize ORNL’s unique capabilities of ultra-high vacuum, glovebox, and ambient atomic force microscopy in conjuction with the extensive toolbox of internally developed modalities to further understand environmental and temperature dependent functional properties. You will have the unique opportunity to develop cutting-edge scanning probe microscopy techniques targeted at discovering underlying new phenomena. In this regard, a particular topic of interest will be the dynamics of topological structures such as ferroelectric and ferroelastic domain walls as a function of their complex nature to better understand how to use them as single active elements and their impact when integrated in nanodevices.

Another focus of the research will be to understand how a new class of ferroelectrics, including wurtzite and fluorite structures, behave on the nanoscale through the development of new techniques and mulitdimensional data analysis. Here, understanding structure-property realationships of this new class of ferroelectrics will directly aid in the development of technologies vital to logic and computing applications. You will play an integral roll in atomic force micrscopy and closely collaborate with other scientists for synthesis, device fabrication, theoretical calculations, and other characterization methods, across multiple CNMS groups and divisions at ORNL and collaborate directly with the Energy Frontier Research Center team at Pennsylvania State University. 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Conduct materials research using atomic force microscopy
• Work as part of a dynamic team conducting research that advances and develops cutting-edge characterization capabilities to improve our understanding of nanomaterial transformations
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD degree in materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a related field completed within the last 5 years

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in atomic force microscopy.
• Fundamental understanding of ferroelectrics, especially in thin film form.
• Experience in Python and/or Matlab.
• Experience in materials characterization techniques such as Raman, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy.
• 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:

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 submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may 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 extraordinary 80-year history of solving the nation’s biggest problems. We have a dedicated and creative staff of over 6,000 people! Our vision for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is to cultivate an environment and practices that foster diversity in ideas and in the people across the organization, as well as to ensure ORNL is recognized as a workplace of choice. These elements are critical for enabling the execution of ORNL’s broader mission to accelerate scientific discoveries and their translation into energy, environment, and security solutions for 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

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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.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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.