Postdoctoral Research Associate – Computational and Theoretical Materials Scientist for Topological – Oak Ridge National Laboratory, United States

Overview:   

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on first-principles theoretical/computational modeling of topological quantum materials.  This position will be funded by the Quantum Science Center, a consortium of universities, national laboratories and industrial partners head quartered at ORNL, with the goal of realizing the potential of topological quantum materials for manipulating, transferring and storing quantum information. As part of our research team, you will work closely with experimentalists who synthesize and characterize quantum materials. First-principles based computational modeling will help interpreting experimental results, guiding synthesis experiment, and identifying materials with improved functional properties.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Perform theoretical and computational modeling of low-dimensional quantum topological materials and proximity induced topological superconductivity using first-principles approaches.
• Present and report research results at internal group meetings and at international conferences.
• Publish scientific results in a timely and consistent manner in peer-reviewed journals.
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics of the institution.
• Support 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 Ph.D in condensed matter theory, computational materials science, or a related discipline completed within the last five years.
• At least 2 years of experience in first-principles modeling.
• Proficiency in computer programming language(s) and a track record of computational code development.
• Experience with Wannier function based techniques is desirable.
• Knowledge of the Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker (KKR) Green’s function method would be an advantage.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent record of productive and creative research as demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate to an international, scientific audience.
• 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.

Special Requirements:

• Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for a 1 year extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.
• Three letters of reference are required and can be uploaded to your profile or emailed directly to PSDrecruit@ornl.gov. Please include the title of the position in the subject line.
• Visa sponsorship is available for this position.

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: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Pet 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.

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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.

Nearest Major Market: Knoxville