Postdoc: Ultrafast Charge Dynamics with SPM in 2D Materials

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance scanning probe microscopy for ultrafast charge dynamics in 2D material/ferroelectric heterostructures. The role involves developing GHz/THz near-field AFM techniques, Python-driven automated workflows, and collaboration across materials synthesis, theory and characterization teams.

The candidate will contribute to fabricating 2D material/ferroelectric heterostructures and publish results while working in

Qualifications

• A PhD completed within the last 5 years in a relevant field.
• Experience with instrument development and electronic instrumentation is preferred.
• Experience with optical characterization techniques (pump–probe, near-field) is preferred.
• Experience with microwave circuits and high-frequency measurements is preferred.
• Experience with 2‑D materials and AFM-based techniques is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct materials research using electrical and optical AFM techniques.
• Contribute to the development of advanced functional AFM techniques.
• Present and publish research results in peer‑reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality requirements.
• Align behavior with ORNL values and promote a respectful workplace.
• Collaborate across ORNL groups in synthesis, heterostructure preparation, theory and characterization.

Skills

Instrument development

Optical characterization

Microwave circuits

Atomic force microscopy

2D materials

Python

MATLAB

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

PhD in materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry or related field

Tools

sNOM

KPFM

PFM

sMIM

Python

MATLAB

Job description

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance scanning probe microscopy for ultrafast charge dynamics in 2D material/ferroelectric heterostructures. The role involves developing GHz/THz near-field AFM techniques, Python-driven automated workflows, and collaboration across materials synthesis, theory and characterization teams.

The candidate will contribute to fabricating 2D material/ferroelectric heterostructures and publish results while working in