Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theory and Computations of Topological Quantum Materials

To Apply: In order to be considered, job seekers must submit an application at http://www.ornl.gov/careers. A direct link for the application is also here: http://bit.ly/2i7uwdX

Purpose:  We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support our Nanomaterials Theory Group. In this role, you will conduct research on the theory and modeling of topological quantum materials for dissipationless charge and spin transport, work alongside our team of dedicated and interdisciplinary researchers, and have the opportunity to share your results with the scientific community. You'll also be collaborating with experimental groups that are applying thin-film growth and characterization, including neutron scattering and electron microscopy techniques. The position resides in the Center for Nanophase Materials Science (CNMS) of the Physical Sciences Directorate at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Overview:  The overall scope of this project is to build a theoretical and computational framework that will enable computational design as well as predictive synthesis leading to discovery of new hybrid quantum interfaces. This will involve electronic structure methods, topological band theory, defect thermodynamics, high throughput computations, and database creation/management. This project includes close collaboration of theory with novel synthesis, neutron scattering at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS), and electron microscopy experiments to validate the theoretical approaches on select compounds.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 
• Perform ab initio thermodynamics calculations to investigate the stability of hybrid interfaces and determine their atomic structure
• Build a computational framework to compute and predict topological properties of hybrid interfaces, and explore new ways of stabilizing promising candidates so they can be experimentally realized
• Craft a database of computed properties of hybrid quantum interfaces for further exploration using machine-learning and data-analytics techniques
• Validate theoretical approaches and predictions by working closely with experimental synthesis and characterization groups
• Work with others to maintain a high level of scientific productivity
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in key peer-reviewed journals in a timely fashion
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Basic Qualifications: 
• A PhD in physics, material science, or a closely related discipline completed within the last five years
• Research background in applying electronic structure methods to study materials

Preferred Qualifications:
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience
• Motivated and safety conscious
• Strong record of productive and creative research proven by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences
• Capable of creative research with minimal supervision and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and interact effectively with a broad range of colleagues
• Published manuscripts on topological quantum materials
• Strong background in thermodynamic modeling and solid-state physics
• Experience with materials modeling, especially using ab initio Density Functional Theory (DFT) methods, and coding in Python

Other Information:
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 up to 12 months. 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.

To Apply: In order to be considered, job seekers must submit an application at http://www.ornl.gov/careers. A direct link for the application is also here: http://bit.ly/2i7uwdX