Assistant Physicist - Coherent X-ray Scattering

Argonne National Laboratory; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 94,000 - 147,000; Full time

Job summary

Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois seeks an Assistant Physicist to advance diffraction‑based techniques at the 8-ID and 28-ID beamlines, collaborating across the Dynamics and Structure and Surface Scattering and Microdiffraction groups of the X-ray Science Division.

The role emphasizes developing new scientific opportunities that leverage X-ray coherence to investigate structure and dynamics in condensed matter, while supporting user operations and fostering a vibrant user community.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in physics or a related field is required.
• Expertise in coherent X-ray scattering or imaging and X-ray diffraction (micro-/nano-diffraction).
• Hands-on diffraction beamline experience at synchrotrons.
• Strong data-analysis skills and ability to program in Python.

Responsibilities

• Support user operations at both 8-ID and 28-ID beamlines.
• Advance diffraction-based techniques and develop new opportunities leveraging X-ray coherence.
• Foster a vibrant user community through collaborations across groups and projects.

Skills

Coherent X-ray scattering

X-ray diffraction

Python programming

Data analysis

Education

Ph.D. in physics or related field

Job description

This is a joint hire between XSD-DYS and XSD-SSM groups for Coherent X-ray Scattering. The Dynamics and Structure (DYS) group within the X-ray Science Division specializes in leveraging coherent X-rays to investigate the intricate relationship among structure, kinetics, and dynamics in condensed matter. The Surface Scattering and Microdiffraction (SSM) group within the X-ray Science Division specializes in utilizing surface scattering, microscopy and coherent scattering to study the in-situ real-time evolution of materials. The two groups are jointly seeking candidates for an Assistant Physicist position to support the 8-ID and 28-ID beamlines. The successful candidate will advance diffraction-based techniques, with a particular emphasis on developing new scientific opportunities that leverage the coherence properties of X-rays to investigate the structure and dynamics of condensed matter systems. In addition to pursuing a strong research program, the Assistant Physicist will support user operations at both beamlines and play a key role in fostering a vibrant user community through collaborations in key scientific areas that promote the groups’ strategic growth. This position requires a daily on-site presence at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois, to support beamline operations and user experiments.

Position Requirements

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in physics or a related field, with expertise in coherent X-ray scattering or imaging, X-ray diffraction such as micro- or nano-diffraction. Hands-on experience working at diffraction beamlines at synchrotron facilities. Strong skills in data analysis and ability to program in languages such as Python for performing experiments and analyzing data. Strong communication skills for working in a multidisciplinary team environment. Ability to synthesize research findings into work products such as articles for publication in scientific journals, technical reports, presentations at professional conferences, etc. Strong self-motivation and interest in researching relevant topics. Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork. Ability to understand, value, and promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

A background in coherent scattering techniques such as X-ray Photon Correlation spectroscopy or Bragg coherent X-ray diffraction. A background in thin film growth and materials synthesis via chemical vapor deposition, molecular beam epitaxy, pulsed laser deposition, atomic layer deposition or reactive sputtering.

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Physics

Worker Type

Regular Time Type Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94. Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation.

Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

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