Postdoc- PLD synthesis of thin film heterostructures and twisted oxide quantum materials

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site fitness facilities

Banking services on-site

Cafeteria facilities

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to study PLD-synthesized twisted oxide and hybrid quantum materials. The role spans epitaxial synthesis, device fabrication, data analysis, and papers in collaboration with a broad expert community.

The candidate will conduct epitaxial synthesis, analyze multifaceted properties, and contribute to quantum materials development with growth and characterization using advanced techniques.

Qualifications

• PhD completed within the last 5 years in a relevant field.
• Track record in the physics of correlated oxides or 2D materials.
• Experience in thin film deposition or 2D materials synthesis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct epitaxial synthesis of complex-oxide thin films and heterostructures by pulsed laser deposition.
• Complete twisted heterostructure and device fabrication using free-standing oxide membranes for physical property characterizations.
• Data analysis of structural, ferroelectric, electric transport, magnetic, and superconducting properties.
• Work with other atomic characterization expertise for scanning tunneling microscopy and quantum device development.
• Publish scientific papers in key journals and present at major conferences and meetings.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Skills

Twisted oxide physics

2D materials

Collaborative research

Education

PhD in Condensed Matter/Materials Science

Tools

Pulsed laser deposition

Epitaxial synthesis

Spin-polarized STM

Job description

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Postdoc- PLD synthesis of thin film heterostructures and twisted oxide quantum materials

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on the physics and materials science of PLD-synthesized twisted oxide and hybrid quantum materials. This position resides in the Neutron & X-Ray Scattering, & Thermophysics group in the Materials Analysis and Interface Science Section, Materials Science and Technology Division, Physical Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

As part of our research team, you will work in a highly collaborative environment with a broad spectrum of expertise, including epitaxial synthesis, twisted membrane fabrication, quantum transport, neutron/x-ray scattering, and spectroscopy. You will perform cutting-edge research on correlated quantum heterostructures, including epitaxial synthesis by pulsed laser deposition, characterization, analyzing data, and writing papers.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct epitaxial synthesis of complex-oxide thin films and heterostructures by pulsed laser deposition
• Complete twisted heterostructure and device fabrication using free-standing oxide membranes for physical property characterizations
• Data analysis of structural, ferroelectric, electric transport, magnetic, and superconducting properties
• Work with other atomic characterization expertise for scanning tunneling microscopy and quantum device development
• Publish scientific papers in key journals and present at major conferences and meetings
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success

Basic Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in Condensed Mather Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, or a closely related field completed within the last 5 years
• A track record in the physics of correlated oxides or 2D materials
• Experience in thin film deposition or 2D materials synthesis

Preferred Qualifications:

• Extensive experience with twisted materials fabrication and characterization.
• Knowledge of correlated-electron physics.
• Experience with spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy and quantum device development.
• 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:

• 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 up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

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.

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.