R&D Associate - Multimodal Spectroscopy of Nanomaterials

Requisition Id 15882

Overview:

We are seeking a Research Staff Scientist to advance our fundamental understanding in 2D materials, thin films, and hybrid nanostructures for quantum information, energy, and microelectronic applications. The ideal candidate will be capable of developing innovative approaches aimed at greatly improving our ability to fundamentally understand new materials through design of novel experimental methods, such as development of high speed and high-fidelity data collection methods, implementation of autonomous experimental workflows, and formulation of new ways to collect multimodal operando data in functional materials. A strong background in materials processing and cleanroom lithographic approaches enabling lab-to-fab workflows is also desirable.

This position resides in the Functional Hybrid Nanomaterials (FHN) Group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), Physical Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Work will involve significant collaboration with external researchers through the CNMS user program, requiring the ability to adapt experimental approaches to diverse research needs while expanding leadership in advanced characterization techniques, such as cathodoluminescence SEM with single photon detection, ultrafast pump-probe spectroscopy, cryogenic Raman and photoluminescence systems, and tunable laser spectroscopy platforms.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Operate and maintain state-of-the-art optical spectroscopy instrumentation including cathodoluminescence SEM, ultrafast pump-probe systems, cryogenic Raman/PL spectroscopy, and tunable laser platforms to characterize 2D materials, thin films, and hybrid nanostructures.
• Provide technical expertise and experimental support to external researchers awarded time through the CNMS user program, adapting characterization approaches to diverse research objectives.
• Design and implement innovative real-time diagnostic methods, autonomous AI/ML-driven experimental workflows, and multimodal characterization platforms that integrate disparate techniques to enable comprehensive in situ and in operando monitoring of material properties.
• Lead independent research projects, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals while presenting results at scientific conferences.
• Interact and collaborate across ORNL’s diverse research portfolio while building collaborations with researchers from universities, DOE national laboratories, user research centers and private industry.
• Mentor visiting researchers, postdocs, and students in advanced optical characterization techniques while contributing to the broader scientific community through workshops and collaborative research initiatives.
• 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 Ph.D. degree in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated expertise in optical spectroscopy and characterization of nanomaterials, 2D materials, or thin films.
• Strong collaborative and communication skills with demonstrated ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary research environments and communicate technical concepts to diverse audiences including external user facility participants.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in 2D and single crystal film synthesis, processing, lithographic device design, and optical and scanning probe characterizations.
• Experience in quantum and correlated materials processing aligned to quantum-relevant device fabrication utilizing Focused Ion Beams and reactive-ion and wet etching approaches.
• Cleanroom and device fabrication experience.
• Scanning probe and electron microscopy experience.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

• 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.

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.

Export Control:

This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

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.