National Renewable Energy Laboratory - Golden, CO

posted 4 months ago

Full-time - Mid Level
Golden, CO
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is seeking a Research Scientist specializing in Autonomous Experimentation for Inorganic Thin Film Materials Discovery. This position is situated within the Materials Science Center and focuses on the synthesis and characterization of inorganic thin films through autonomous experimentation methods. The successful candidate will engage in a collaborative environment, working alongside scientists, engineers, and technicians to leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning for early-stage materials development. The role involves designing new automated experimental instruments and upgrading existing software controls to facilitate closed-loop autonomous experimentation. The candidate will be responsible for the synthesis, characterization, and analysis of inorganic thin films, which are crucial for various applications in energy and electronic materials. This includes hands-on support in developing experimental materials research data infrastructure, such as databases, algorithms, software, APIs, and user interfaces, in collaboration with software engineers. Additionally, the Research Scientist will be expected to write research proposals in response to funding opportunities and to communicate research findings through journal publications and conference presentations. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that aligns with NREL's mission to advance renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.

Responsibilities

  • Design new automated experimental instruments and upgrade existing software controls for closed-loop autonomous experimentation.
  • Synthesize, characterize, and analyze inorganic thin films using autonomous experimentation methods.
  • Collaborate with experimental and theoretical physicists and chemists on materials research projects.
  • Develop experimental materials research data infrastructure, including databases, algorithms, software, APIs, and user interfaces.
  • Write research proposals in response to funding opportunities and communicate research results through publications and presentations.

Requirements

  • Relevant PhD, or a relevant Master's Degree plus 3 or more years of experience, or a relevant Bachelor's Degree and 5 or more years of experience.
  • Demonstrates complete understanding and wide application of scientific technical procedures, principles, theories, and concepts in the field.
  • General knowledge of related disciplines and demonstrated leadership in team, task, or project lead responsibilities.
  • Experience in project management and strong technical writing, interpersonal, and communication skills.
  • Hands-on experience with vacuum chambers and other laboratory equipment, and a strong background in materials chemistry and semiconductor physics.

Nice-to-haves

  • Experience with automated high-throughput combinatorial research methods.
  • Synthesis via physical vapor deposition methods such as sputtering or MBE.
  • Discovery and design of inorganic thin film materials such as nitrides and oxides.
  • Design and implementation of software for data analysis and instrument control.
  • Ability and interest in attracting research funding.

Benefits

  • 403(b) retirement plan
  • 403(b) matching
  • AD&D insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
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