Postdoctoral Research Associate - Condensed Matter Theory

Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Oak Ridge, TN

Full-time - Entry Level

Oak Ridge, TN

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will develop and apply computational methods based on electronic structure theory approaches with emphasis on vibrational and thermal properties of a range of materials, including chiral insulators and magnets. Research efforts may include application of density functional theory (e.g. QE, VASP) and Boltzmann transport (e.g. ShengBTE, phono3py) packages to describe anharmonic properties of materials, including scattering spectra and thermal conductivity, as well as the development of supplemental numerical tools. The Materials Theory Group has a background in using first principles methods to examine electronic and thermal transport, magnetic properties of advanced materials, thermoelectrics, functional oxides, defects and disorder, and weakly bonded materials. The incumbent will have opportunities to develop research methodologies as well as collaborate with experimental groups at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This position resides in the Materials Theory Group in the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at ORNL.

Responsibilities

• Develop and use first principles methods to describe vibrational spectra, thermal transport, phase stability, and magnetic structure in a range of materials.
• Responsible for presenting and reporting key scientific results and publishing high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of ORNL core values and ethics.

Requirements

• A PhD related to computational or theoretical physics, chemistry, materials science, or other closely related field completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience with computational modeling of electrons and phonons from density functional theory methods.

Nice-to-haves

• An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience.
• Scientifically curious and self-motivated with the ability to participate creatively in a collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated experience with electronic structure methods for description of electronic, magnetic, and vibrational properties in a range of materials.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Vision Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance