Assistant Scientist – UHV Scanning Probe Microscopy and Surface Science (NST)
The Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM) at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for an Assistant Scientist position in the Quantum and Energy Materials (QEM) group. We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative experimental scientist with expertise in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) surface science techniques and scanning probe microscopy (SPM), including scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM).
We welcome candidates with a strong record of using these methods to address fundamental questions in nanoscience and surface science. Experience with or interest in a broader range of UHV-based synthesis and characterization techniques, including surface science spectroscopies and related approaches, is also highly valued.
About CNM
The Center for Nanoscale Materials is a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science User Facility that provides researchers from around the world with access to world-class expertise and instrumentation for multidisciplinary research in nanoscience and nanotechnology. CNM fosters a collaborative and innovative environment where scientists work together to address important scientific challenges in physics, chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology.
The Role
This position offers the opportunity to combine independent and collaborative research with scientific and technical support for CNM users. The successful candidate will contribute to and help advance an experimental program centered on UHV surface science preparation, synthesis, characterization, and scanning probe microscopy capabilities. Research that aligns with CNM’s strategic scientific directions is particularly encouraged.
A key aspect of this role is supporting internal and external users by providing scientific guidance and technical expertise that enables successful experiments and impactful discoveries.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and lead an experimental research program using UHV surface science techniques, including STM/STS and/or AFM
Conduct innovative, self-directed, and collaborative research in nanoscience and surface science
Provide scientific and technical support to CNM users, helping them plan and execute successful experiments
Contribute to CNM’s scientific mission by developing new experimental capabilities, methods, and research directions
Collaborate with researchers within CNM, across Argonne, and with external partners
Communicate research outcomes through publications, presentations, and collaborative interactions
Position Requirements
Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related physical science or engineering field
Demonstrated experience with ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) surface science techniques
Expertise in scanning probe microscopy (SPM), including STM, STS, and/or AFM
Strong interest in applying advanced experimental methods to fundamental problems in nanoscience and surface science
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
Preferred Experience
Experience with a broader set of UHV surface science synthesis and characterization techniques
Familiarity with surface science spectroscopies and related methods
Record of impactful research demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications and collaborative work
Interest in supporting and engaging with a diverse scientific user community
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following application materials:
A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
A cover letter describing their interest in the position and how their experience and expertise would contribute to success in the role
A two-page statement of proposed research
Why Join CNM
Joining CNM means becoming part of a vibrant scientific community where staff researchers and users work together to enable cutting-edge discoveries.
This role offers the opportunity to:
Build an independent research program in a world-class user facility
Work with advanced instrumentation and develop new capabilities
Collaborate with leading scientists across disciplines
Contribute to a supportive and dynamic research environment with global impact
RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years of experience, Masters and 3+ years, or PhD and 0+ years, or equivalent
Job Family
Research Development (RD)Job Profile
Materials/Ceramics/Metallurgical 2Worker Type
RegularTime Type
Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94.Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.
Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.
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Skills Required
- Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or closely related field (or equivalent experience)
- Demonstrated experience with ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) surface science techniques
- Expertise in scanning probe microscopy (SPM) including STM, STS, and/or AFM
- Ability to develop and lead an experimental research program in UHV surface science
- Ability to provide scientific and technical support to internal and external users
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
- Experience with broader UHV synthesis and characterization techniques
- Familiarity with surface science spectroscopies and related methods
- Record of impactful research demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications
- Interest in supporting and engaging with a diverse scientific user community
What We Do
Argonne National Laboratory, one of the U.S. Department of Energy's national laboratories for science and engineering research, employs 3,400 employees, including 1,400 scientists and engineers, three-quarters of whom hold doctoral degrees.
