Postdoctoral Research Associate

Brookhaven National Laboratory • Ridge, NY

1d • $74,000 - $88,000

About The Position

This position will develop Python-based software interfaces that increase the autonomy of in-situ, operando, and high-throughput experiments. The work focuses on real-time process monitoring—data-quality checks, data reduction, analysis, and intelligent search—delivered as plugins to the Bluesky (NSLS-II) data-collection framework via APIs. The successful workflow will integrate new and existing tools to support multimodal measurements (XRD, total scattering/PDF, and UV–vis–NIR spectroscopy), enabling high-quality, high-throughput, time-resolved data and metadata generation for interactive use and AI-driven experiment steering. The capabilities will directly support two application areas: (1) automated/autonomous colloidal nanomaterial synthesis and (2) materials synthesis and processing using direct Joule heating. The candidate will collaborate closely with NSLS-II XPD/PDF beamline staff on measurements, data acquisition, and analysis, and with the Data Science and Systems Integration (DSSI) division to integrate AI algorithms for data collection and analysis.

Requirements

• PhD in Physical Sciences (Physics/Chemistry), Materials Science, or related fields; OR PhD in Computational Science with a BS or MS (or equivalent) in a Physical Science discipline.
• Fluency in programming with Python and scientific software development & deployment.
• Experience with inline, in-situ, or operando characterization data collection using X-ray and/or other methods.
• Demonstrated scientific contributions through publications and presentations in relevant areas.
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse, cross-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

Nice To Haves

• Software development involving AI/ML methods.
• Experience with materials synthesis; X-ray scattering/diffraction; and/or optical spectroscopy (UV–vis, NIR/IR) or related techniques.
• Experience developing data-analysis methods and workflows for diffraction/scattering (XRD, PDF/SAXS) and/or optical spectroscopy.
• Background in materials science, solid-state chemistry, or nanoscience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the reimplementation and modernization of an existing Python/Bluesky-based workflow for autonomous experimentation using an automated nanosynthesis reactor deployed at the 28ID-2 XPD beamline of NSLS-II.
• Develop and adapt APIs leveraging Bluesky frameworks and tools to acquire and analyze XRD and PDF data and integrate data inputs/outputs with the NSLS-II Bluesky data-acquisition ecosystem.
• Collaborate with researchers across disciplines (e.g., synthetic chemistry, machine learning, and AI) within BNL and with external partners.
• Publish and present research and software outcomes to the scientific community.

Benefits

• Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation.
• Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to employee success and we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive.
• Review more information at BNL | Benefits Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree