Postdoctoral Appointee - Exploratory Synthesis & Crystal Growth of Quantum Materials

The Materials Science Division is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our Quantum States and Crystalline Matter Group. This exciting research opportunity focuses on the discovery and study of new quantum materials, with a primary emphasis on superconductors. The successful candidate will play a key role in the exploratory synthesis and crystal growth of novel solid-state inorganic materials, including chalcogenides, pnictides, halides, and intermetallic compounds. The position also involves comprehensive structural, optical, magnetic, and electrical characterization to establish structure-property relationships and advance the understanding of emergent quantum phenomena.

Position Requirements

Recent or soon-to-be-completed PhD (typically completed within the last 0-5 years) in Physics, Materials Science or Chemistry.

1. Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research in the exploratory synthesis and crystal growth of novel quantum materials using techniques such as molten-flux growth (metals, chalcogenides, halides, and hydroxides), Bridgman crystal growth, chemical vapor transport, and related methods.
2. Hands-on experience with materials characterization techniques, including powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, single-crystal structure determination, optical spectroscopy, and magnetic and electrical property measurements.
3. Ability to collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, and materials scientists to accomplish research objectives.
4. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret experimental results and contribute to high-impact scientific publications and conference presentations.
5. Demonstrated interest in, and commitment to staying current with, advances in quantum materials, superconductivity, and related areas of condensed matter research.
6. Interested candidates are invited to submit their curriculum vitae, a cover letter detailing their research interests and relevant experience, and the names and contact information of three professional references.

7. Ability to model Argonne’s core values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

8. Ability to work onsite at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois.

This job description documents the general nature of work but is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all activities, duties and responsibilities required of job incumbent. Consequently, job incumbent may be required to perform other duties as assigned.

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 $72,879.00-$121,465.00.

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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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.