Requisition Id 12970 

Overview:  

We are seeking an R&D Associate Member who will support the Data NanoAnalytics (DNA) and Nanomaterials Theory Institute (NTI) groups within the Theory and Computation Section in the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences Division (CNMS), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). You will develop state-of-the-art predictive multi-scale simulation capabilities and automated cross-platform workflows bridging simulation methods with multi-modal experiments using domain-informed AI/ML algorithms to achieve autonomous experimentation. A wide range of experiments including automated microscopy (e.g., STM, STEM, FIB, and SPM) and synthesis techniques (e.g., PLD, flow reactors) will be targeted. Predictive theoretical modeling will be achieved by combining scalable density functional theory (DFT) approaches (such as real-space DFT, DFTB), beyond-DFT approaches for solids (such as GW, DMFT, QMC), and reactive (machine-learning) force-field methods, using advanced automated workflows and AI/ML algorithms that incorporate experimental feedback to improve theory.  

As an R&D Associate Staff member you will work closely with scientists at CNMS who are experts in developing and applying various theoretical, experimental and AI/ML approaches and actively contribute toward theory/experiment co-navigation to enable automation of nanoscale experimental probes, as mentioned above, and achieve scientific breakthroughs. The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS) is one of five US DOE’s Nanoscience Research Centers (NSRCs) providing capabilities to the scientific user community. As such, you will actively engage and work with users to achieve greater scientific impact from their developmental work. 

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an extraordinary 80-year history of solving the nation’s biggest problems. We have a dedicated and creative staff of over 6,000 people! Our vision for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is to cultivate an environment and practices that foster diversity in ideas and in the people across the organization, as well as to ensure ORNL is recognized as a workplace of choice. These elements are critical for enabling the execution of ORNL’s broader mission to accelerate scientific discoveries and their translation into energy, environment, and security solutions for the nation.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Collaborate closely with other members of the DNA & NTI group at CNMS
• Develop cross-platform integrated theory and experiment workflows to accelerate research and discovery process
• Develop multi-scale simulation approaches (atomistic to coarse-grained and continuum) to connect theory, modeling, and simulation with multi-modal experimentation 
• Create and maintain databases on in-house data storage resources working closely with ORNL’s workflow and data management scientists
• Develop AI/ML approaches to incorporate experimental feedback and improve theoretical predictions
• Present and report research results and publish in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Present results at international scientific conferences and meetings
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering or a closely related science or engineering discipline

Preferred Qualifications:

• Good grasp of concepts in material science and simulation methods beyond atomistic approaches (phase-field methods, coarse-grained modeling etc.)
• Strong demonstrated background in coding for data analysis using Python, Julia etc. with knowledge or keen interest to develop and meaningfully incorporate advanced AI/ML algorithms to advance your research 
• Experience creating automated workflows and/or databases
• Verifiable history of completed code commits (e.g. on GitHub)
• An excellent record of productive and creative research shown by a record of publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory 
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

Benefits at ORNL: 

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people. The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.

Other benefits include the following: 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, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.