Postdoctoral Research Associate- Condensed Matter Theory

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance computational methods in condensed matter theory. This role emphasizes the application of AI and machine learning techniques to explore electronic properties of materials critical to the Department of Energy's mission. Collaborate with experimental teams and contribute to innovative research methodologies while enjoying a supportive environment that values diverse perspectives. With a commitment to scientific excellence, this position offers opportunities for professional growth and impactful contributions to energy and environmental solutions.

Benefits

Medical and Retirement Plans

Flexible Work Hours

On-site Fitness Facilities

Employee Discounts

Educational Assistance

Relocation Assistance

Wellness Programs

Generous Vacation and Holidays

Parental Leave

Life Insurance

Qualifications

• PhD in related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience with computational modeling of electronic properties.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply computational methods for electronic and magnetic structure.
• Present and report scientific results and publish research.

Skills

Computational Modeling

Density Functional Theory

Artificial Intelligence

Machine Learning

Research Methodologies

Education

PhD in Computational Physics

PhD in Materials Science

PhD in Chemistry

Tools

QE

VASP

WIEN2K

ShengBTE

phono3py

Wannier90

Job description

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Postdoctoral Research Associate- Condensed Matter Theory

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will develop and apply computational methods based on electronic structure theory approaches, as well as artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques (AI/ML) with emphasis on electronic properties (charge and spin) of a range of materials important to the DOE mission, including the materials classes described below. Research efforts will include application of density functional theory (e.g. QE, VASP, WIEN2K) and post-processing packages (e.g. ShengBTE, phono3py, Wannier90) packages to describe various properties of DOE-relevant materials.

The Materials Theory Group has a background in using first principles methods to examine magnetic properties of advanced materials, electronic and thermal transport, thermoelectrics, functional oxides, defects and disorder, and weakly bonded materials. The incumbent will have opportunities to develop research methodologies as well as collaborate with experimental groups at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This position resides in the Materials Theory Group in the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop and use first principles and AI/ML methods to describe electronic and magnetic structure, excitations and interactions, phase stability, and transport properties in a range of materials.
• Responsible for presenting and reporting key scientific results and publishing high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals.
• 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 PhD in computational or theoretical physics, chemistry, materials science, or other closely related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience with computational modeling of electrons and magnetic properties from density functional theory methods.

Preferred Qualifications:

• An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• 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:

Postdocs:

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.

List of Publications:

Please provide a list of publications when applying for this position.

Letters of Recommendation:

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You can upload these directly to your application or have them sent to [e-mail] with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

• Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
• View Profile
• Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: [e-mail].

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.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

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.