Quantum Materials Scientist

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Organization Overview:

The Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN) at Brookhaven is a DOE-funded national scientific user facility, offering users a supported research experience with top-caliber scientists and access to state-of-the- art instrumentation. The CFN mission is advancing nanoscience through frontier fundamental research and technique development and is the nexus of a broad collaboration network. Each year, CFN staff members support the research of nearly 600 external facility users.

Three strategic nanoscience themes underlie the CFN scientific facilities: The CFN conducts research on nanomaterial synthesis by assembly designing precise architectures with targeted functionality by organizing nanoscale components. The CFN researches and applies platforms for state-of-the-art techniques for Accelerated Nanomaterial Discovery, integrating synthesis, advanced characterization, physical modeling, and computer science to iteratively explore a wide range of material parameters. The CFN develops and utilizes advanced capabilities for studies of Nanomaterials in Operando Conditions for characterizing materials and reactions at the atomic scale in real-world environments.

Position Description:

The CFN is seeking an exceptional Assistant Scientist to develop a unique and impactful research program in the area of materials for Quantum Information Sciences; especially the study of synthesis and properties of heterostructures of two-dimensional (2D) materials. The CFN has built an advanced cluster tool—the Quantum Material Press (QPress)—that uses robotics and machine-learning to automate the assembly of stacked 2D nanomaterials. Your independent research program will leverage this capability and other CFN resources to study novel quantum materials. You will define a research program that explores the synthesis, characterization, and/or device properties of such heterostructures. Concurrently, you will develop a vibrant collaboration network, by supporting CFN users requiring the advanced materials synthesis and characterization methods that you will develop. You will collaborate closely with colleagues in the development and support of specialized equipment, while playing a leadership role in defining a world-class research program in quantum materials. You will work as part of the QPress team, under the supervision of Dr. Kevin Yager (Electronic Nanomaterials Group).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

As an Assistant Scientist, you will have these roles and responsibilities:

  • You will develop a novel material research program related to 2D materials and heterostructures thereof, combining investigations of frontier synthesis, characterization, functional properties (electrical or optical), and/or device applications.

  • You will participate in the design, upgrade, and maintenance of the QPress system, and/or related facilities for frontier research in heterostructures.

  • You will collaborate with scientific staff and a broad community of users, across a diverse set of backgrounds; including supporting the research programs of others by providing scientific expertise and facility support.

  • You will disseminate research findings via paper publications and external presentations.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • You have a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline (Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, or a suitably related discipline).

  • You have carried out at least two years of research or development after earning your Ph.D., for example as a postdoctoral researcher, research assistant, industrial scientist, or an equivalent position.

  • You have the research and leadership skills necessary to independently plan and execute a frontier research program focused on heterostructure nanomaterials.

  • You communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations/proceedings.

  • You are committed to creative and independent research, teamwork, and fostering an environment of safe scientific work practices; you are committed to cultivating an inclusive and respectful workplace environment.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • You are experienced with functional and device measurements (e.g. electrical or optical) relevant to quantum materials.

  • You have hands-on experience with the design, upgrading, and construction of integrated scientific research instrumentation.

  • You have experience with scientific programming, and/or artificial-intelligence and machine-(AI/ML) methods.

Additional Information:

This is an On-Site position.

Brookhaven Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $101200 – $145733 / year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.

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