ResponsibilitiesContribute to PNNL's goals as part of the Lab's Physical Sciences Division (PSD). Through fundamental research supported by DOE Basic Energy Sciences, we seek to understand the fundamental interactions, reactivity, and dynamics of ions in solutions, that are relevant for a multitude of energy and biological processes. The proposed research effort focuses on developing and utilizing advanced X-ray scattering methods, in particular X-ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (XPCS), to probe with atomic scale resolution the equilibrium and non-equilibrium atomic structure of complex ionic solutions and solvated molecular complexes. These experiments will be strongly coupled with state-of-the art theoretical efforts for the interpretation and modelling of the data.
As a postdoctoral researcher based in the experimental Physical Chemistry group, you will investigate challenging molecular-scale science questions, including ion-solvent and ion-ion interactions and dynamics, the mechanisms of charge and proton transfer in molecules, and the spontaneous collective fluctuations that drive chemical reactivity in liquids. You will conduct split-pulse XPCS and related experiments using the LCLS X-ray Free Electron laser (XFEL) at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and related XFELs and synchrotron facilities around the world. You will be mentored and collaborate with other senior investigators in a multi-institutional team, including researchers at PNNL, and SLAC. This position is based at SLAC (Menlo Park, CA).
What you will do:
- Propose, lead, and participate in X-ray experiments at large-scale X-ray light source facilities to investigate the structure and dynamics of ionic solutions.
- Perform extensive analysis of complex datasets, including learning and developing the computational tools and analysis codes necessary to extract structural and dynamical information from X-ray scattering experiments.
- Interpret experimental data through comparison with state-of-the-art theoretical calculations, in close collaboration with members of the theory team.
- Work independently, take initiative, and contribute effectively to collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects.
- Prepare and publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Become an integral member of PNNL and SLAC fundamental chemical physics research teams, taking advantage of world-class expertise and capabilities to advance your research. Interact, communicate, and problem-solve with researchers across the multi-institutional collaboration.
- Present research findings at scientific conferences, workshops, and project/program review meetings.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
- Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Experience with XPCS or X-ray scattering methods at synchrotrons or XFELs and/or experience with tabletop ultrafast spectroscopy methods.
- Strong ability to analyze complex datasets and develop appropriate models, working closely with theorists; familiarity with coding languages such as Python and/or Julia.
- Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to take initiative, identify new research opportunities, and independently develop solutions to challenging scientific problems.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong leadership abilities and the ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team of scientists across multiple institutions.
- Ability to travel from SLAC to PNNL for regular meetings with PNNL researchers, and to synchrotron and XFEL facilities around the world to perform experiments.
Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentStandard laboratory hazards.
Testing Designated PositionThis is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).
Rockstar RewardsEmployees 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 ApplicantsPNNL 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 SalaryUSD $69,000.00/Yr.
Maximum SalaryUSD $119,100.00/Yr.
