Research Scientist – Neutron and X-ray Scattering

Argonne National Laboratory•Lemont, IL

20h

About The Position

The Neutron and X-ray Scattering (NXRS) Group in Argonne National Laboratory’s Materials Science Division seeks a mid-career Research Scientist to conduct experimental condensed matter research using advanced neutron scattering techniques. The group investigates material properties using neutron and X-ray scattering, complementary experimental approaches, and advanced data-analysis methods. Its research develops experimental and analytical tools for understanding how local defects, short-range correlations, and fluctuations—whether static or dynamic—influence material behavior. Current research interests include ionic conductors, quantum and strongly correlated electron materials, frustrated magnetic systems, and other energy-relevant materials. The successful candidate will combine neutron scattering with complementary experimental techniques to develop a fundamental understanding of atomic and magnetic correlations and fluctuations, and their effects on energy and quantum materials. The position offers the opportunity to establish and lead an independent research program while collaborating with colleagues across the NXRS Group, Materials Science Division, and Argonne community. The scientist will develop new research directions, publish high-impact results, contribute to proposal development, and mentor postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and visiting scientists. The role is classified as Research Development (RD), Physics 3, and is regular, full-time employment. The posting gives expected hiring ranges of $116,250–$181,350 annually for RD3 and $138,000–$215,280 annually for RD4; it also lists an overall expected hiring range of $116,250–$181,350. Pay depends on factors including the position’s scope and responsibilities, candidate qualifications, business considerations, internal equity, and market pay. Comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package. Employment offers are contingent on a background check, including individualized review of criminal conviction history. The position may require government access authorization, which entails additional background-check requirements. Applicants must disclose participation in certain Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities for review by Argonne’s Legal Department. Argonne is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to a safe, welcoming, and nondiscriminatory workplace.

Requirements

Ph.D. in physics, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
Relevant research experience in academia, industry, or a national laboratory setting.
Extensive expertise in the development and application of innovative neutron scattering methods for condensed matter research.
Demonstrated ability to lead and manage research projects.
Strong background in condensed matter physics and/or materials science.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with individuals at all levels, within and outside the laboratory.
Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
Experience threshold varies by grade: RD3 lists a bachelor’s degree plus 8 or more years, a master’s degree plus 5 or more years, or a Ph.D. plus 4 or more years (or equivalent); RD4 lists a bachelor’s degree plus 12 or more years, a master’s degree plus 7 or more years, or a Ph.D. plus 6 or more years (or equivalent).

Responsibilities

Lead innovative experimental condensed matter research projects using advanced neutron scattering techniques.
Develop and apply neutron scattering methods for condensed matter research.
Combine neutron scattering with complementary experimental techniques to study atomic and magnetic correlations and fluctuations and their impact on energy and quantum materials.
Establish and lead an independent research program.
Develop new research directions.
Publish high-impact results in leading scientific journals.
Contribute to proposal development.
Mentor postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and visiting scientists.
Collaborate with colleagues in the NXRS Group, the Materials Science Division, and the broader Argonne community.