Research Associate-Experimental

Stanford University; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Stanford University in Menlo Park seeks a Research Associate to expand in-situ/operando thermal catalysis XAS capabilities on beamline 4-1, collaborating with SSRL, Co-ACCESS, and user communities. The role emphasizes AI/ML-driven beamline control, data analysis, and broad user support.

Applicants should hold a PhD and demonstrate operando XAS experience, hardware development ability, and strong collaboration and communication skills to advance activities across facilities and researchers.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, physics or related field.
• Experience with operando thermal catalysis X-ray absorption spectroscopy, analysis and data interpretation.
• Experience collaborating within diverse research teams and with beamline engineers.

Responsibilities

• Collaboratively develop beamline control and data analysis modes with AI/ML capabilities.
• Develop in-situ/operando capabilities translatable across hard X-ray beamlines.
• Provide user support for the thermal catalysis community across beamlines, especially BL 4-1.
• Train users on in-situ/operando XAS data analysis.

Skills

Python

Data analysis

XAS

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related field

Tools

Operando XAS hardware

Job description

Position Overview:

The Chemistry and Catalysis Division at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) has an opening for a Research Associate position focused on expanding and supporting capabilities for in-situ/operando thermal catalysis X-ray absorption spectroscopy primarily focused on beamline 4-1.

The candidate will work in a highly collaborative environment working with beamline engineering teams, the Consortium for Operando and Advanced Catalyst Characterization via Electronic Spectroscopy and Structure (Co-ACCESS), the electrocatalysis program at SSRL, and the user community. Responsibilities of the candidate will include (but will not be limited to):

1. Collaboratively develop beamline control and data analysis modes with a focus on implementing AI/ML methodologies to expand the scientific reach of the beamline, attracting forefront science.
2. Develop in-situ/operando capabilities that are translatable across the hard X-ray beamlines.
3. Perform user support for the thermal catalysis community across a suite of spectroscopy beamlines, with a strong focus at BL 4-1.
4. Train users on in-situ/operando XAS data analysis.

Note:

The Research Associate role is a fixed term staff position. Appointment duration is 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding.

Applicants must provide evidence of either a recently completed PhD degree or confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Applicants should also include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae which includes a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application.

SLAC is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory operated by Stanford University and based in Menlo Park; CA.

To be successful in this position you will bring:

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with operando thermal catalysis X-ray absorption spectroscopy characterization, analysis, and data interpretation with a focus on time-resolved studies.
• Demonstrated experience in working with diverse groups of researchers in a collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated experience in developing in-situ/operando thermal catalysis hardware.
• Strong experimental, analytical and computation skills. Preferable experience analyzing large datasets using python or similar tools.
• Proven publication record in in-situ/operando XAS spectroscopy, catalysis, or materials characterization.
• Broad scientific interests and willingness to learn new skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population.
• Ability to work in a team environment and independently.

SLAC Employee Competencies:

• Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in atimely manner.
• Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning anddeveloping.
• Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility forexpected outcomes.
• Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, andmotivation to move things forward.
• Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjustingand accommodating changes.
• Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates anddelivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages
• Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate toachieve.