X-ray Powder Diffraction (XPD) Beamline Research Scientist - Brookhaven National Laboratory

From developing next-generation batteries and microelectronics to designing future pharmaceuticals and quantum computers, scientists tackle the world’s greatest challenges by advancing our understanding of materials. However, today's problems are so complex that they require researchers to study materials with highly specialized tools that are not readily available at most institutions. The National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS- II) makes such state-of-the-art tools available, together with the expertise to use them, to scientists from all over the world. The current 29+ beamlines at NSLS-II offer the widest spectrum—from infrared to hard x-rays—of synchrotron light that enables characterization using in situ, multimodal, time-resolved diffraction, spectroscopy and microscopy. One of their core missions is to observe materials under conditions far from equilibrium, i.e., as a function of a process parameter like T, P, pH, pressure and flow of reactive gases, electric or magnetic field. One of the strategic research directions that NSLS-II is investing in is, making beamlines suited to autonomous experiments as well as high throughput measurements. This plan will enhance the scientific throughput with more fundamental insight into the time evolution of materials processing and kinetics. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The NSLS-II is seeking an experienced scientist for the X-ray Powder Diffraction (XPD) beamline. They will be closely working with the Lead Beamline Scientist towards enhancing the beamline capabilities and productivity. XPD is a high energy & high-flux wiggler beamline that uses advanced, high throughput, in-situ, and operando instrumentation. XPD offers three techniques: diffraction, pair distribution function analysis, and X-ray Imaging (full-field tomography, diffraction-tomography). The candidate for the position will contribute to such fields as, but not limited to, complex energy conversion and storage systems, including batteries, fuel cells, and heterogeneous catalysts. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the operation and the user program of the XPD beamline by working closely with the Lead Beamline Scientist while exploring the opportunities for high-impact, collaborative research in line with the NSLS II strategic plans.
• Upgrade the experimental procedures at the beamline, from sample environment to data collection to data analysis, for user friendly and streamlined measurements & analysis.
• Adapt the beamline’s capabilities for intelligent, autonomous and high throughput experiments.
• Participate in internal and external scientific & technical collaborations that leverage the unique potential of the beamline.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field and at least 2 years of postdoctoral or other research experience in similar fields.
• Expertise in experiments and data analysis, and publications using Synchrotron X-ray/Neutron Powder Diffraction.
• Prior research work in topics pertaining to sustainable materials synthesis & clean energy.
• Experience with collaborative code development in Python using version control platforms such as GitHub.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills.  
• Demonstrate the ability to interact effectively in a team environment with a diverse group of researchers, engineers, technical staff, and users.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field and at least 4 years of post-Ph.D. experience in similar fields.
• At least 2 years of experience in supporting users at large facilities like synchrotron/neutron facilities.
• Experience with X-ray Imaging, and/or X-ray Scattering Techniques and Data Interpretation.
• Demonstrated collaborative research and established network in support of collaborative work with others.
• Experience in research areas related to Energy, Defense, and National Security, Nuclear Forensics or Nuclear Safety.
• Experience with Sample Environments including handling of hazardous materials & conditions.
• Experience in high throughout synchrotron data collection including controls, robotics, and automation.

Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. This is a multi-level role and the full salary range for this position is $101,200 - $130,000 / year. You will be placed at the level and salary commensurate with your experience.  Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group. 

Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Energy and Photon Sciences Directorate are committed to your success. We offer a supportive work environment and the resources necessary for you to succeed.