Postdoctoral Scholar (Physics)

Penn State University • University Park, IL

2d

About The Position

The Department of Physics at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, seeks a postdoctoral research associate with exceptional research potential. Research will support two federally funded projects: the 2D Crystal Consortium (2DCC), a National Science Foundation Materials Innovation Platform user facility, and LATTICE (Layered and Thin Film Technologies with Intelligent Cloud Experimentation), a National Science Foundation Programmable Cloud Laboratory.

The work focuses on synthesizing two-dimensional quantum materials by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and performing in-vacuo characterization using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and a four-probe LT-Nano scanning probe. For 2DCC, the scholar will operate and maintain the MBE/ARPES/LT-Nano cluster tool in support of user projects. For LATTICE, the work will integrate 2DCC MBE/ARPES capabilities into the LATTICE ecosystem, emphasizing in-situ feedback and control, autonomous deposition-tool operation, and AI/ML workflows for synthesis and characterization. The role will also support integration of experimental data and model outputs into the Lifetime Sample Tracking database and development of cloud-lab interfaces for external users. The scholar will collaborate with equipment vendors, AI researchers developing agentic workflow frameworks, data scientists, and future users of the LATTICE cloud laboratory.

This is a term position. The term length will be discussed during the interview process; continuation beyond that term depends on university need, performance, and/or funding availability. Applicants must complete Penn State’s application and provide a curriculum vitae, at least three reference letters, a publication list, and a research statement. Applications will be reviewed immediately and accepted until the position is filled. Employment requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Chemistry by the date of appointment.
• Experience in ARPES and related characterization techniques and/or MBE growth of thin films.
• Strong track record of related research, as evidenced by a publications list.
• Experience maintaining and operating ultra-high-vacuum thin-film deposition equipment and cryogenic ultra-high-vacuum surface-characterization tools.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize two-dimensional quantum materials by molecular beam epitaxy.
• Characterize materials in vacuo using ARPES and a four-probe LT-Nano scanning probe.
• Operate and maintain the 2DCC MBE/ARPES/LT-Nano cluster tool in support of 2DCC user projects.
• Integrate 2DCC MBE/ARPES capabilities into the LATTICE ecosystem.
• Develop and support in-situ feedback and control, autonomous deposition-tool operation, and AI/ML workflows for synthesis and characterization.
• Integrate experimental data and model outputs into the Lifetime Sample Tracking database.
• Contribute to cloud-lab interfaces for external users of the LATTICE platform.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors, AI researchers, data scientists, and future users of the LATTICE cloud laboratory.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support personal and professional well-being.

What This Job Offers

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