Surface Analysis Research Specialist

Cornell University•Ithaca, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR) has an immediate opening for a Surface Analysis Research Specialist (job class Research Support Specialist III). This position serves as a vital member of CCMR’s team of experts supporting fundamental materials research in our core facility on the Ithaca campus. CCMR encourages applications from individuals who have the skills and desire to enable cutting-edge research and train the next generation of researchers. The successful candidate will bring advanced training in a relevant discipline (e.g., materials science, physical science, or engineering) and experience with X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and related surface analysis techniques. A self-motivated work ethic along with excellent communications and interpersonal skills will be critical to success in this role. The position is ideal for someone who enjoys collaborating with others and who can adeptly operate scientific instrumentation, optimize sample analyses, and prioritize multiple, changing tasks.

Requirements

Master’s degree in materials science, physical science, engineering, or similar discipline and 3–5 years’ experience with XPS (x-ray photoemission spectroscopy) and related surface analysis techniques, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
Demonstrated strong work ethic and self-motivation.
Ability to work independently as well as collaborate effectively with others.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Desire to enable cutting-edge research and train the next generation of researchers.
Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. in materials science, physical science, engineering, or similar discipline.
Experience with atomic force microscopy and related techniques, such as force imaging, piezo-force microscopy, electric-force microscopy, or magnetic force microscopy.
Strong organizational skills and supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

Directly support surface analysis techniques, primarily XPS (Xray photoemission spectroscopy) and profilometry, but also other techniques such as electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, spectroscopy, or focused ion beam.
Develop analytical techniques, find creative solutions to research requests, and upgrade and troubleshoot instrumentation.
Work closely with facility users to plan measurements and provide hands-on training.
Train researchers on safe and proper use of moderately complex instrumentation, ensuring acquisition of high-quality data.
Develop new protocols and procedures in XPS, electron microscopy, scanned probe microscopy, confocal microscopy, and more.
Perform analyses for off-campus users and compile research summary reports.
Develop instrument use (standard operating procedures) and lab safety protocols.
Document and disseminate procedures via training sessions, online documentation, and video tutorials.
Work with instrument vendors to improve or update instrument capabilities.
Monitor records of equipment usage and maintenance for accounting, safety, and billing purposes.
Perform routine preventative maintenance tasks and procure inventory, supplies, and maintenance items.
Foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care options
Generous retirement contributions
Access to wellness programs
Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
Health and personal leave
Three weeks of vacation
13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1.
Two additional floating holidays.
Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
Tuition aid for external education
Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program