Job Description

Requisition Id 15052 

­­Overview:
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to use advanced scanning probe microscopy for the development and application of multiscale excitonic probes. In this role, you will study buried interfaces in monolithic 3D heterogeneous integration (M3D HI) systems, with a particular emphasis on vertically stacked 2D/3D semiconductor heterostructures. 

This position resides in the Functional Atomic Force Microscopy (FAFM) group in the Nanomaterials Characterization Section, Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), Physical Science Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). You will join our team as part of the Department of Energy’s Nanoscale Science Research Center (NSRC)-CHIP project.

As part of our research team, the successful candidate will lead experimental efforts using advanced nanoscale optical and scanning probe techniques—including spatially and temporally resolved photoluminescence, electroluminescence, and a strong focus on photoinduced force microscopy (PiFM)—to investigate exciton dynamics, charge transfer, and interfacial disorder. Responsibilities will include designing experiments, preparing and characterizing samples, analyzing data from complementary techniques such as scanning microwave impedance microscopy, Kelvin probe force microscopy, and cathodoluminescence, as well as collaborating with theorists for data-model integration. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of novel nanoscale metrology frameworks with direct implications for the design of next-generation optoelectronic devices. Ideal candidates should have a strong background in optical spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy, or condensed matter physics, and a passion for working in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. You will play an integral role in the development of PiFM and closely collaborate with other scientists across the network of NSRCs for synthesis, device fabrication, theoretical calculations, and other characterization methods, as well as across multiple CNMS groups and divisions at ORNL.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct materials research using combined photonics/scanning probe microscopy techniques.
• Advance capabilities for specialized scanning probe microscopy methods
• Work as part of a dynamic team conducting research that advances and develops cutting-edge characterization capabilities to improve our understanding of interfaces and defects in low-dimensional heterostructures.
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD degree in materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Previous experience/knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
• nanoscale optical spectroscopy techniques such as photoluminiscense, electroluminescence, cathodoluminescence-SEM and/or near field optical microscopies (SNOMs).
• 2D materials
• materials for microelectronics

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in surface and interface characterization using atomic force microscopy.
• Knowledge of exciton dynamics, charge transport, or interfacial phenomena in low-dimensional systems.
• Experience in materials characterization techniques such as Raman and scanning electron microscopy.
• Data analysis skills using Python, MATLAB, or similar platforms.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
•   Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.  
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements: 

Postdocs:

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.  

Letters of Recommendation:

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

· Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov

· View Profile

· Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

Export control, no clearance :

This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation. 

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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