X-Ray Diffraction Researcher

Morgan State University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 79,000 - 107,000; Full time

Job summary

NIST PREP in Washington, DC seeks an X-Ray Diffraction Researcher to lead experimental design and data analysis for autonomous XRD systems. You will collaborate with APS and Argonne to deploy instruments and validate hardware controls for real-time experiments.

The role covers developing synchrotron XRD experiments for in-situ analysis of additively manufactured metal alloys, integrating workflows with predictive models, and disseminating findings through publications and reports.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in a relevant science or engineering field.
• Hands-on experience with synchrotron X-ray diffraction experiments and data analysis preferred.
• Experience with instrumentation, experimental automation, and hardware control in scientific research.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement instrumentation and hardware control for autonomous XRD experiments.
• Coordinate with national lab partners (e.g., APS, Argonne) to deploy and optimize setups.
• Develop and execute synchrotron XRD experiments for in-situ analysis of additively manufactured alloys.
• Integrate experimental workflows with predictive modeling tools for real-time decision making in AM.
• Publish findings through publications, conference presentations, and technical reports.

Skills

Synchrotron XRD

Instrumentation & automation

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science/Physics/Mechanical Engineering or related field

Job description

Posting Summary

Job Title X-Ray Diffraction Researcher Division Research & Economic Development Department NIST PREP Job Effective Date 04/01/2027 Job End Date 03/31/2028 Work Status Full Time Position Category Contractual FLSA Exempt Annual Salary $93,254 Pays $93,254 /per year Percentage Amount Fund Source Federal/Grant Requisition Reason New Job Duties

• Supporting the design and implementation of the instrumentation and hardware control systems for autonomous X-ray diffraction experiments.
• Coordinating with national lab partners at the Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, to deploy and optimize experimental setups.
• Developing and executing synchrotron XRD experiments for in-situ structural analysis of additively manufactured metal alloys.
• Assisting in the integration of experimental workflows with predictive modeling tools to guide real-time decision-making in AM.
• Disseminating research findings through publications, conference presentations, and technical reports.

Requested Minimum Qualifications

Education

A Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field from an accredited college or university is required.

Experience

• Hands‑on experience with synchrotron X-ray diffraction experiments and data analysis.
• Experience with instrumentation, experimental automation, and hardware control in scientific research.