Assistant Scientist (Materials synthesis, Nanofabrication)

The successful candidate will lead the synthesis and characterization of thin films including metals, oxides/nitrides/dielectrics using various physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) systems within CNM’s state-of-the-art cleanroom facility.

Responsibilities include:

• Developing a research program on materials synthesis that aligns with CNM’s strategic scientific theme areas

• Operating and maintaining various PVD and CVD systems including sputtering, evaporation, and thermal/plasma based atomic layer deposition (ALD) systems respectively

• Developing and optimizing synthesis recipes for various materials to meet the needs of CNM staff and users

• Managing and maintaining additional cleanroom tools, such as the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and metrology equipment

• Collaborating with a diverse team of scientists and engineers from universities, national laboratories, and industry including providing guidance and supervision of CNM users

• Publishing research results in scientific journals and writing reports

• Ensuring reliable operation, troubleshooting, and repair of cleanroom tools in coordination with CNM operations staff

Key responsibilities:

Work with CNM staff, users, and other Argonne divisions to lead thin film synthesis and characterization efforts aligned with CNM’s strategic research themes. Assist in the maintenance and efficient operation of the CNM cleanroom, ensuring smooth workflow for both staff and users.

Position Requirements

• Ph.D. in physical sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Electrical/Mechanical Engineering) or related field awarded preferably within the last 5 years or will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by the commencement of employment

• Expert in thin film synthesis (sputtering, evaporation, ALD) of various materials including metals, oxides/complex oxides, nitrides and dielectrics as well as their characterization using XRD, SEM, Raman, AFM etc.)

• Good understanding of synthesis-structure-property relationships of thin films

• Experience in reactive sputtering, epitaxial thin film growth

• Hands-on experience with PVD and CVD systems, including maintenance and troubleshooting

• Familiar with cleanroom fabrication techniques, including lithography, dry/wet etching etc.

• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

Interested candidates should submit their detailed CV along with the following documents:

• A cover letter outlining their experience and motivation for applying for this position

• A research statement (1-2 pages) describing their scientific vision and research plan

• A user research statement (1-2 pages) detailing their strategy for developing user science/capabilities

RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years of experience, Masters and 3+ years, or PhD and 0+ years, or equivalent

The expected hiring range for this position is $90,063 to 143,010 annually

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Materials/Ceramics/Metallurgical 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $90,063.00 - $143,010.27.

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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