Postdoctoral Appointee - MSD Ultrafast Time-Resolved X-ray Diffraction Microscopy and Spectroscopy for Quantum Materials

The Coherent and Ultrafast X-ray Science Group in the Materials Science Division at Argonne National Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral appointee to lead research in ultrafast time-resolved hard X-ray diffraction microscopy and spectroscopy on single-crystalline bulk and thin film quantum materials (e.g. ferroelectrics, multiferroics, strongly correlated electron systems).

This position will focus on ultrafast dynamics in femto- to nanosecond time-domains in quantum materials including nonequilibrium phase transitions and collective excitations in quantum materials, including phonons, magnons, and other emergent quasiparticles. The successful candidate will lead time-resolved X-ray diffraction experiments to reveal structural and electronic dynamics in condensed matter systems.

The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with scientists at the Materials Science Division and the Advanced Photon Source (APS) as well as collaborate with external partners to exploit state-of-the-art synchrotron and X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) facilities for exploring transient states with high temporal and spatial resolution.

Although the maximum salary for the position is $117,925, the actual range is $79,000 to $84,000.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead ultrafast X-ray diffraction and in-situ experiments at synchrotron and XFEL facilities to probe structural and electronic dynamics in quantum materials.
• Design and implement synchronization and timing electronics, including pulse, function, and delay generators, for sub-nanosecond and femtosecond measurements.
• Analyze multidimensional datasets (time, space, reciprocal space, and temperature).
• Collaborate with beamline scientists to commission advanced instrumentation and novel measurement schemes.
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national and international conferences.
  
  

This position will provide the opportunity to:

• Lead cutting-edge time-resolved X-ray experiments at world-leading synchrotron and XFEL facilities.
• Explore the dynamics of emergent phenomena, including non-equilibrium structural, magnetic, and electronic phase transitions or collective excitations, in quantum materials.
• Collaborate with diverse and interdisciplinary teams within the Materials Science division at the Argonne National Laboratory and external collaborators.
  
  

Position Requirements

• Ph.D. (completed or soon to be completed) in Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in time-resolved X-ray diffraction and in-situ X-ray micro/nanoscopy.
• Experience working with synchrotron or X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) facilities.
• Hands-on experience with ultrafast pump-probe or in-situ experimental techniques employing laser, magnetic, or electrical fields.
• Proficiency in experimental electronics and timing systems (e.g., pulse generators, delay generators, gating electronics, and synchronization circuits).
• Demonstrated proficiency in x-ray data analysis and instrument control using Python, MATLAB, or equivalent programming languages.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of X-ray optics, detector systems, and beamline instrumentation.
• Background knowledge in ultrafast phase transition and structural dynamics in condensed matter systems.
  
  

Please upload the following as attachments to your application via Workday:

• CV/Resume
• Cover Letter
• Unofficial Ph.D. Transcripts
• If already awarded, a copy of your Ph.D. diploma. Candidates can be currently enrolled to apply, but must have proof of degree conferral by the position start date.
  
  

At the point of interview, candidates will be asked to submit the name/contact of three references.

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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