TES Beamline Scientist

Brookhaven National Laboratory•Upton, NY

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) provides state-of-the-art tools and expertise for scientists to study materials, enabling research in areas like next-generation batteries, microelectronics, pharmaceuticals, and quantum computers. NSLS-II currently offers over 29 beamlines with a wide spectrum of synchrotron light for characterization using in situ, multimodal, time-resolved diffraction, spectroscopy, and microscopy. A strategic focus is on developing beamlines for autonomous experiments and high-throughput measurements to enhance scientific throughput and gain fundamental insights into materials processing and kinetics. NSLS-II is seeking an experienced scientist for the Tender Energy Spectroscopy (TES) beamline team to enhance capabilities, drive scientific productivity, and support its user program. The TES beamline specializes in X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray fluorescence imaging in the 2-5.5 keV energy range, with planned upgrades to 1.7-8.3 keV. It serves a diverse user community in catalysis, energy science, geochemistry, environmental science, and bioscience. The beamline has two endstations: SMART XAS for bulk XAS measurements and a tender X-ray microscope for spatially resolved studies, which is undergoing a major upgrade for commissioning in 2026. The selected candidate will contribute to applications in energy conversion and storage systems, including batteries, fuel cells, and heterogeneous catalysis.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
At least 2 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
Demonstrated expertise in planning and executing in situ/operando experiments.
Demonstrated expertise in analysis of EXAFS data.
Demonstrated expertise in publishing results using X-ray spectroscopy and/or imaging techniques.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Strong publication record demonstrating impactful research in XAS and/or X-ray imaging.
Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment with a diverse group of scientists, engineers, and technical staff.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in beamline operations and user support for a spectroscopy beamline.
Hands-on experience with in-situ/operando Raman spectroscopy.
Hands-on experience with battery and/or electrocatalyst in-situ/operando spatially resolved X-ray experiments.
Proven experience with first-principles simulations of X-ray spectroscopy, including X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and/or X-ray emission spectroscopy (XES).
Demonstrated ability to carry out independent research and develop innovative scientific programs in X-ray spectroscopic image.
Demonstrated Python programming skills relevant to data acquisition or data analysis, evidenced through publications or software development.
Experience with collaborative Python code development using version control platforms such as GitHub.
Experience working with sample environments involving hazardous materials or extreme conditions.
Working knowledge of EPICS and EPICS-based data acquisition systems.

Responsibilities

Support the operation and the user program of the TES beamline by working closely with the Lead Beamline Scientist while exploring the opportunities for high-impact, collaborative research in line with the NSLS II strategic plans.
Improve experimental procedures at the beamline, from sample environment and data collection to data analysis, enabling user-friendly and streamlined measurements and analysis.
Adapt the beamline’s capabilities for autonomous and high throughput experiments.
Participate in internal and external scientific & technical collaborations that leverage the unique potential of the beamline.
Carry out independent research in areas aligned with the scientific mission of the beamline and/or contribute to the development of new experimental capabilities and methodologies.