Scanning Tunneling Microscopy - R&D Associate

Location: Oak Ridge, TN, US, 37830

Requisition Id 7461 

Overview: 

We are seeking an R&D Associate Staff member who will focus on research in nanoscience and quantum information science with the use of Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM).  This position resides in the Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Group in the Materials Characterization Section, Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).   

As part of our research team, you will contribute to research in nanostructured quantum materials including topological matter, 2D atomic layers, and other atomic structures that exhibit exotic electronic and magnetic behaviors. Your work in experimental science will develop and employ spin-polarized STM and cryogenic STM to manipulate atomic/molecular structures and study low-energy excitations. The involved STM platforms include millikelvin vector-field STM and cryogenic Four-Probe STM, combined with molecular beam epitaxy growth for STM imaging, spectroscopy, transport, and manipulation. This research encourages development of your experience and scientific vision.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Work as part of a dynamic team conducting basic research that advances our understanding of quantum materials.
• Conduct experimental research in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) combining STM for characterization and molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) for growth of low-dimensional materials and interfaces
• Manage and operate state-of-the-art scanning probe microscopes
• Perform data analysis and interpretation
• Work with others to maintain a high level of scientific productivity
• Present research and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely fashion
• 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 in Condensed Matter Physics, Materials Sciences, or a closely related field
• Background in scanning tunneling microscopy

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in developing or utilizing advanced STM for atomic-molecular scale spectroscopy
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills in English 
• Motivation to be safety conscious
• A strong record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences
• Capability for innovative research with minimal supervision and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and interact effectively with a broad range of colleagues
• A strong background in material science and condensed matter physics, including electronic structure, single atoms/molecules characterization, and transport properties
• Experience with atomically precise synthesis and in situ characterization using surface analytical techniques
• A background in instrument development and detailed understanding of SPM equipment
• 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:

Three letters of reference are required and can be uploaded to your profile or emailed directly to PSDrecruit@ornl.gov.  Please include the title of the position in the subject line.

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.