Materials Scientist 2

Responsibilities

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate for pursuing fundamental research on the synthesis, characterization, and performance of metal and metal oxide thin films using ultra high vacuum-based thin film deposition tools. The candidate will be expected to develop and execute an experimental plan and analyze as well as interpret the data leading towards their dissemination in journal publications. The research will require a close collaboration with microscopists and computational materials scientists for developing novel materials and correlating the findings with theoretical predictions. The position contributes to programs addressing mission goals for the DOE Office of Basic Energy Sciences.

• Design and develop synthesis and characterization approaches for metal and metal oxide thin-film materials with desired functionality using state of the art thin film deposition techniques.
• Lead the design, procurement, commissioning, upgrade, and maintenance of UHV deposition and characterization instrumentation to sustain state-of-the-art capabilities and ensure reliable, efficient operation.
• Coordinate with appropriate support staff on routine preventive as well as unplanned maintenance of the UHV deposition and characterization instrumentation.
• Lead manuscript writing in peer reviewed journals and lead as well as support proposal development efforts.
• Present research findings at technical conferences and project review meetings.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA and 2 years of relevant experience -OR-
• MS/MA -OR-
• PhD

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in chemistry, materials science, physics, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and/or molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) systems is required.
• Experience using CO2 lasers for substrate heating is highly desirable.
• Strong expertise in epitaxial thin film synthesis and characterization, particularly in metals and metal oxides, supported by a solid publication record and practical experience.
• Familiarity with key materials characterization techniques such as XRD, AFM, TEM, and ellipsometry for characterization of thin films.
• Prior research experience in studying the electronic, optical, catalytic, and ion transport properties of precisely designed heteroepitaxial thin films and devices.
• In-depth knowledge of and hands-on experience with synchrotron-based techniques. Willingness to travel up to 10% of the time to synchrotron facilities.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, kinetics, statistical mechanics, and data science principles.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of scientists and technical staff, while demonstrating initiative to ensure timely completion of project tasks and deliverables. Responsibilities include preparing first drafts of manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and delivering technical presentations at scientific conferences.
• The candidate must possess excellent oral and written communications skills.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not Applicable

Testing Designated Position

This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

Rockstar Rewards

Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company-funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401 (k) savings plan with company match*. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.

* Research Associates excluded.

**All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.

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Notice to Applicants

PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual's relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.

As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.

Minimum Salary

USD $100,100.00/Yr.
Maximum Salary

USD $150,200.00/Yr.