X-ray Characterization Scientist & Instrumentation Lead

University of Southern California; Glendale (CA); On-site; USD 99,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southern California (USC) Viterbi School of Engineering invites applications for a Staff Scientist specializing in X-ray characterization to support the Core Center of Excellence in Nano Imaging (CNI). The role designs experiments, guides users, and maintains instrumentation in a busy multi-user facility.

You will train researchers in XPS, XRD, SAXS/WAXS, and XRF, develop protocols, and coordinate safety and operations on shared instruments at USC's Los Angeles campus.

Qualifications

• Advanced expertise across X-ray characterization methods including XPS, XRD, SAXS, WAXS, and XRF.
• Experience supporting a multi-user research facility, shared instrumentation laboratory, core facility, or university research environment.
• Experience developing scientific protocols, user training programs, instrument qualification tests, and laboratory operating procedures.
• Experience contributing to research proposals, instrumentation proposals, technical publications, presentations, workshops, or symposia.
• Experience evaluating, installing, commissioning, or expanding advanced scientific instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Provide guidance on selection and application of X-ray methods.
• Train users in advanced X-ray techniques and experimental design.
• Develop and maintain operating procedures and training materials.
• Oversee instrument operation, maintenance, and data handling.
• Coordinate user support, documentation, and safety practices.
• Organize symposia and educational programs on X-ray methods.

Skills

X-ray characterization

XPS

XRD

SAXS

WAXS

XRF

Multi-user facility experience

Training program development

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

X-ray instrumentation

Job description

The University of Southern California (USC) Viterbi School of Engineering invites applications for a Staff Scientist specializing in X-ray characterization to support the Core Center of Excellence in Nano Imaging (CNI). The role designs experiments, guides users, and maintains instrumentation in a busy multi-user facility.

You will train researchers in XPS, XRD, SAXS/WAXS, and XRF, develop protocols, and coordinate safety and operations on shared instruments at USC's Los Angeles campus.