Materials Characterization Research Scientist

Leidos•Albany, OR

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Leidos is seeking an experienced Materials Characterization Research Scientist interested in pursuing their passion by working side-by-side with world-class scientists and engineers using state-of-the-art equipment to support applied research at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), driving innovation and delivering solutions for advanced material development and energy technologies. The ideal candidate will be responsible for independently planning and carrying out materials characterization studies, including operating and maintaining complex analytical instruments, developing new analytical methodologies, and resolving technical problems that arise. The researcher will conduct on-site research at NETL in Albany, OR. What this opportunity with Leidos supporting NETL uniquely provides: Working on applied, cutting-edge projects with global impact through collaboration with the nation’s leading energy scientists and engineers to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States. Unique insight into the broad range of engineering and scientific disciplines NETL leverages to support national energy research and policy development to address America's energy challenges, support homegrown energy initiatives, stimulate economic growth, and improve the health, safety, and security of all Americans. Access to world-class, customized facilities specific to high-impact energy research, technology generation, and patent development. Participation in novel fundamental and applied energy technology development with direct economic impact on advanced materials and energy technology development.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related field with 2+ years of applicable experience
Must be able to meet the requirements for gaining access to work on the NETL campus
U.S. Citizen
Proven expertise in X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, including phase identification, Rietveld refinement, and crystallographic interpretation demonstrated through publication record
Demonstrated experience with XRF spectroscopy for elemental analysis and quantitative composition determination
Extensive hands-on experience with a range of thermal analysis techniques, including LFA, dilatometry, and STA (including DSC, TGA, DTA) for materials characterization
Experience identifying and troubleshooting instrument performance issues for X-ray and thermal analysis equipment
Strong understanding of crystallography, solid-state chemistry, and materials science principles
Experience in reporting characterization results and uncertainty analysis to technical audiences
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple research projects in a fast-paced laboratory environment
Demonstrated experience in method development and optimization for materials characterization
Experience following and developing quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) processes and standard operating procedures
Proven track record of collaboration with multidisciplinary research teams and serving as a technical resource

Nice To Haves

PhD degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related field
Experience with complementary characterization techniques such as SEM/EDS, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, and NMR
Demonstrated experience with in-situ/operando characterization techniques for dynamic materials analysis for
Experience analyzing metallic alloys or geological samples
Knowledge of machine learning approaches for materials data analysis and pattern recognition
Experience in an ISO laboratory environment or with laboratory accreditation standards
Proven publication record in peer-reviewed journals demonstrating materials characterization expertise
Excellent oral and written communication skills for technical and general audiences

Responsibilities

Lead Advanced Materials Characterization: Conduct comprehensive characterization and analysis of metallic alloys, composites, carbonaceous materials, and geological samples using techniques such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and thermal analysis (e.g., TGA, LFA, Dilatometry, DSC, DTA) to determine phase composition, crystallinity, elemental composition, structural details, thermal stability, and phase transition behavior.
Develop and Optimize Analytical Methodologies: Design, validate, and implement novel and robust analytical methods, including specialized sample preparation, sophisticated data acquisition protocols, and advanced matrix correction strategies.
Perform Expert Data Processing and Interpretation: Conduct in-depth analysis of complex diffraction patterns and other analytical data using specialized software, including Rietveld refinement and quantitative phase analysis.
Ensure Analytical Quality and Integrity: Establish and enforce rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) protocols, including method validation, interlaboratory comparisons, and the use of certified reference materials.
Manage Instrument Operations and Safety: Oversee the expert operation, proactive troubleshooting, and routine maintenance of X-ray and thermal analysis instrumentation, strictly adhering to all radiation safety protocols.
Collaborate and Disseminate Research Findings: Partner with multidisciplinary research teams to develop comprehensive characterization plans, translate complex analytical data into actionable insights through detailed reports and presentations, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
Contribute to Cross-Functional Expertise: Engage in cross-training to develop and apply expertise in complementary characterization techniques (e.g., Scanning Electron Microscopy), enhancing overall analytical capabilities.
Organization and Management: Balance competing priorities from multiple project and analytical requests while maintaining stringent QA/QC, instrument operation, and safety standards.
Commitment to Excellence: Attention to detail to ensure completed work, such as analytical reports, method documentation, and research publications are technically sound, accurate, and effective in meeting project objectives.