Postdoctoral Research Associate - Correlated Quantum Materials
Overview:
Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security.
The Correlated Quantum Materials group at Oak Ridge National Lab seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to help advance our understanding of quantum materials through experimental studies of bulk materials. This project aims to develop and understand new and emerging quantum materials and control their physics by modifying their chemistry and crystal lattice, with emphasis on magnetism and quasi-2D systems. Some aspects of the project directly address topology while others emphasize electron correlations, and the most interesting physics problems often involve an intersection of the two. As a postdoc, you will have the opportunity to drive the project forward by identifying and pursuing promising avenues of study. The team approach relies on collaborations with researchers from diverse backgrounds, including condensed matter theorists and scientists performing neutron scattering and various spectroscopies/microscopies.
As part of our team, you will perform experiments and analyze data to understand various phenomena in quantum materials. The team members have strong skills in materials synthesis, particularly single crystal growth, as well as the characterization of structural, thermal, magnetic, and transport properties. The ideal candidate will be expected to lead measurement efforts to characterize the electronic and magnetic properties of bulk materials, develop an understanding of their underlying physics, and tune them toward their most interesting ground states and behaviors. This position offers different avenues for skill development, including techniques for single crystal growth, neutron diffraction, laboratory-based ac and dc magnetization and transport measurements, as well as the ability to craft and test hypotheses for the investigation of model quantum materials. This position therefore provides the opportunity to make significant contributions in the field of quantum materials while refining your existing experimental skills and developing new ones.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
- Present and report research results and publish scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals in a timely fashion
- Help maintain Quantum Design measurement systems
- Keep an orderly and informative laboratory workspace and notebook
- Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
- Maintain a strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
Basic Qualifications:
- A PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field completed within the last 5 years
- Background in experimental materials physics research, including materials synthesis, laboratory-based characterization, or spectroscopies for condensed matter physics
Preferred Qualifications:
- Familiarity with the health and safety hazards associated with an experimental condensed matter laboratory that houses an extensive synthesis effort and cryogenic equipment
- Experience handling cryogens and performing cryogenic measurements
- A demonstrated ability to apply complementary characterization techniques to understand the nature and origins of correlated and/or topological phenomena
- Experience with characterization and analysis of thermodynamic properties associated with magnetism or superconductivity
- Familiarity with the characterization and analysis of transport properties (electrical, thermal, galvanomagnetic, thermomagnetic, thermoelectric)
- Experience running and maintaining Quantum Design instruments, including the incorporation of external controls for high precision transport measurements
- 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
Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You can 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
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 for up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and the availability of funding.
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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.
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