Overview:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will conduct research in condensed matter theory with emphasis on using first principles and related methods to understand the properties of magnetic materials, as well as other advanced materials. This position resides in the Materials Theory Group in the Materials Science and Technology Division, Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at ORNL.  

The Materials Theory Group has a strong background in using first principles methods to examine magnetic properties of advanced materials, thermal conductivity (see S. Mukhopadhyay, D.S. Parker et al, Science 360, 6396 (2018)), and functional oxides. As part of our research team, you will have opportunities to collaborate with experimental groups at ORNL and lead high-profile, high impact scientific research to turbocharge your scientific career.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Employ first principles methods and models to study magnetic properties of potential high performance magnetic materials, including magnetization, magnetic anisotropy, Curie temperatures, and related properties.
• Employ first principles techniques to understand a range of materials properties important to the DOE mission, including magnetism, thermal conductivity, superconductivity and ferroelectricity.
• Responsible for presenting and reporting key research results and publishing scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in Condensed Matter Physics, Computational Materials Science or closely related field completed within the last 5 years
• Experience with density functional theory methods, such as electronic structure calculations using WIEN2K, VASP, Quantum Espresso and/or similar packages

Preferred Qualifications:

• An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate to an international, scientific audience
• Safety conscious
• Ability to work with both a measure of autonomy and the ability to participate creatively in a collaborative team environment
• Ability to work on multiple tasks in a limited amount of time and to independently set priorities to accomplish these tasks to meet deadlines

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 extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Please provide a list of publications when applying for this position. Three letters of reference are required and can be uploaded to your profile or emailed directly to [email protected]. Please include the title of the position in the subject line.

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

Apply Here: Postdoctoral Research Associate - Condensed Matter Theory