Postdoctoral Research Associate - Quantum Phenomena in Correlated and Topological Materials

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

3d

About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory seeks a postdoctoral research associate to advance research in correlated and topological quantum materials. The work emphasizes accelerating the discovery of antiferromagnets with spin-polarized electronic band structures, such as altermagnets and p-wave magnets, and topological spin textures. Neutron and x-ray scattering are the primary experimental techniques. The research will use concepts from quantum geometry and spin space groups, along with machine-learning-driven data analysis, to accelerate the path from candidate materials to fundamental understanding.

The position is in the Correlated Electron Materials Group within the Foundational Materials Science Section, Materials Science and Technology Division, Physical Sciences Directorate at ORNL. The associate will work in a collaborative research environment with expertise in materials synthesis, quantum transport, ARPES, and neutron and x-ray scattering, and will conduct research on correlated and topological quantum materials. The appointment may last up to 24 months, with possible extension subject to performance and funding availability.

Requirements

• PhD in Condensed Matter Physics or a closely related field, completed within the five years before application; all degree requirements must be completed before the appointment begins.
• Experience working in the physics of correlated and topological materials.
• Expertise in neutron and/or x-ray scattering.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge, or, for eligible foreign-national candidates who have not met the U.S. residency requirement, obtain a favorable LSSO risk determination to maintain employment.
• Submit three letters of reference with the application or send them to the stated postdoctoral recruitment email address.

Nice To Haves

• Significant neutron and x-ray scattering experience, including proposal writing, data collection, and advanced analysis.
• Proficiency with scripting or programmatic languages such as Python and LabVIEW.
• Experience applying AI and machine learning to experimental data sets.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and contribute creatively to collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt in a fast-paced research environment.

Responsibilities

• Use neutron or photon-based diffraction and spectroscopy to characterize quantum materials.
• Analyze data to determine structural, electronic, magnetic, and topological properties.
• Collaborate with others to maintain a high level of scientific productivity.
• Publish scientific papers and present research at scientific meetings and conferences.
• Comply with environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Uphold the laboratory’s values and ethics, including Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service, and promote an equal-opportunity, respectful workplace.

Benefits

• Medical and retirement plans
• Flexible work hours
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities
• Prescription drug plan
• Dental plan
• Vision plan
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Contributory pension plan
• Life insurance
• Disability benefits
• Generous vacation and holidays
• Parental leave
• Legal insurance with identity theft protection
• Employee assistance plan
• Flexible spending accounts
• Health savings accounts
• Wellness programs
• Educational assistance
• Relocation assistance
• Employee discounts

What This Job Offers

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