Postdoctoral Research Associate - Ames National Laboratory

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Ames National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct world-renowned research in terahertz and infrared near-field microscopy instrumentation and applications in biological and quantum materials. This role involves developing advanced ultrafast nanoscopy instrumentation and applying it to biological, quantum, and functional materials. The successful candidate will work with Principal Investigators and Scientists, developing, planning, and performing experiments, critically analyzing results, optimizing processes, and generating reports, presentations, and manuscripts for publication. The position requires the ability to work collaboratively within a team of staff scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and students, as well as conduct independent research. The role also necessitates the ability to handle multiple tasks, meet set milestones, and draft quarterly progress reports. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills with a positive attitude are essential for maintaining a professional work environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. must be completed prior to start date.
• Ph.D. degree in Condensed Matter Physics.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with ultrafast near-field microscopy in custom-designed environments, including cryogenic temperatures, high magnetic fields, and femtosecond temporal resolution.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with ultrafast and terahertz spectroscopy and microscopy.
• Experience building custom broadband scanning near-field optical spectroscopy systems spanning THz to infrared frequencies under extreme experimental conditions.

Responsibilities

• Developing, planning and performing experiments.
• Critically analyzing results.
• Performing optimization to improve outcomes.
• Generating reports, presentations and manuscripts for publication.
• Developing advanced ultrafast nanoscopy instrumentation and applying it to biological, quantum and functional materials.
• Working with a team consisting of staff scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and students.
• Conducting both collaborative and independent research.
• Handling multiple tasks.
• Meeting set milestones.
• Drafting quarterly progress reports.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental.
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans.
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans.
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa).
• Life insurance and long-term disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Wellbeing program.
• WorkFlex options for some positions.

What This Job Offers

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