Postdoctoral Research Associate in Neutron Scattering

Brookhaven National Laboratory; Upton (NY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

Brookhaven National Laboratory invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Neutron Scattering Group to study spin, charge, and lattice correlations in quantum materials. The position involves planning experiments, data analysis, and dissemination of results.

Work will be conducted on-site at the BNL campus in Upton, NY, with opportunities for collaboration and potential crystal growth.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics required with strong background in condensed-matter physics.
• Computing skills for data analysis (Python/IDL/Matlab or suitable alternative).
• Curiosity, willingness to learn and strong ethical standards.

Responsibilities

• Plan and perform neutron scattering experiments, develop ideas, collect and analyze data.
• Write results for publication and present at conferences.
• Collaborate with Neutron Scattering group and Condensed Matter division; potential crystal growth.
• Write proposals for beam time and communicate results clearly.

Skills

PhD in Physics

Condensed-matter physics

Computing for data analysis

Education

PhD in Physics

Tools

Python

IDL

MATLAB

Job description

The Neutron Scattering Group, including John Tranquada, Jennifer Sears, and Igor Zaliznyak, is currently soliciting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to collaborate on studies of spin, charge, and lattice correlations in quantum materials. The scope of the neutron scattering research program covers a wide range of topics of current interest within condensed matter, and novel research directions are also encouraged. Ongoing projects study a variety of materials including unconventional superconductors, topological materials, van der Waals materials, and frustrated magnets.

Neutron scattering experiments (with a focus on inelastic measurements) are performed at national user facilities, such as the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) and High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, on crystals that are typically grown in our own labs by Genda Gu or obtained through collaboration. We also work closely with other groups in the Condensed Matter Physics & Materials Science Division, with expertise in crystal growth, bulk and transport measurements, x-ray scattering, and condensed matter theory.

Position Description

This job involves the planning and performance of neutron scattering experiments, including developing ideas, data collection and analysis, as well as writing up the results for publication. Projects may build upon existing work within the group or develop new avenues of research related to the physics of quantum materials. Work will take place in collaboration with the other members of the Neutron Scattering group, as well as with the broader Condensed Matter department at BNL. There may be opportunities for crystal growth.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Write proposals for experimental beam time.
• Perform neutron scattering experiments at remote user facilities.
• Analyze the resulting data.
• Communicate the results through scientific publications in journals and talks at conferences.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ph.D. in Physics (or a closely related field).
• Strong background in condensed-matter physics.
• Computing skills and proficiency with programming for data analysis (Python, IDL, Matlab or suitable alternative).
• A natural curiosity and desire to learn.
• Demonstrated commitment to working safely, acting ethically, and taking personal accountability for operational excellence.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience with scattering and spectroscopy-based techniques.
• Experience with the study of structure and excitations in quantum materials.
• Knowledge of magnetism, lattice dynamics, correlated-electron physics.

Other Information:

• Work will be conducted on-site at the BNL campus in Upton, NY. Travel will be required for experiments at national user facilities, such as the Spallation Neutron Source at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
• BNL policy requires that after obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.
• Brookhaven Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $75,000 - $81,000 / year. You will be placed at the level and salary commensurate with your experience. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.
• PhD must be obtained prior to commencing employment.
• The appointment will be initially for two years, with the possibility of extension and career growth contingent on performance and funding.

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About Us

Brookhaven National Laboratory (www.bnl.gov) delivers discovery science and transformative technology to power and secure the nation's future. Brookhaven Lab is a multidisciplinary laboratory with seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, 37 R&D 100 Awards, and more than 70 years of pioneering research. The Lab is primarily supported by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science. Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) operates and manages the Laboratory for DOE. BSA is a partnership between Battelle and The Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University. BSA salutes our veterans and active military members with careers that leverage the skills and unique experience they gained while serving our country, learn more at BNL | Opportunities for Veterans at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

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