Postdoctoral Appointee - Electron Microscopy for Microelectronics

Argonne’s Nanoscience and Technology Division seeks a postdoctoral scientist to advance transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies of materials and interfaces relevant to microelectronics. Working within the Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM), the successful candidate will leverage state-of-the-art functional and dynamic TEM capabilities to lead experimental research on defect species, distributions, and dynamics in metallic, oxide, and semiconducting systems. This project integrates high-throughput and in situ TEM experimentation with AI/ML-driven image analysis and computational modeling to uncover mechanistic insights into defect migration and functional properties. The work will be performed in close collaboration with experts in microelectronics materials and devices, materials characterization, computational modeling, and artificial intelligence across multiple academic and national laboratories.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute S/TEM imaging and spectroscopy, including in situ studies (e.g., EELS, EDS) to probe defect structures and dynamics
• Apply advanced image processing and analysis; develop AI/ML workflows for quantitative defect characterization
• Implement high-throughput and automated TEM specimen preparation, including focused ion beam (FIB) methods
• Curate and prepare datasets for AI model training, validation, and inference
• Disseminate findings through high-impact publications and presentation
  
  

Position Requirements

• Recent or soon-to-be-completed Ph.D. (0–5 years) in materials science, physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related field
• Strong background in scanning/transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM), including atomic-resolution imaging, EELS, and EDS; experience with cathodoluminescence (CL) and electron-beam induced current (EBIC) imaging is a plus
• Experience with TEM specimen preparation via FIB and/or nanofabrication techniques (photolithography, e-beam lithography)
• Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python) for experiment automation and/or image analysis; experience with machine learning is a plus
• Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with electronics, including electrical measurements relevant to microelectronics devices
• Background in metals, oxides, semiconductors, and/or 2D materials
  
  

Job Family

Postdoctoral

Job Profile

Postdoctoral Appointee

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $70,758.00-$117,925.00.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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