OVERVIEW:

We are seeking an Associate Research Scientist who will focus on elucidating microstructure-property relationships in materials using atom probe tomography (APT). This position resides in the electron Microscopy and MicroAnalysis (eMMA) Group in the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), Physical Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Your work will focus on supporting new collaborations with external CNMS users who access the APT facilities while also fostering close collaborations with researchers from many groups across ORNL to support established new programs that leverage APT for materials science and beyond.
As part of our research team, you will support the APT research efforts and facilities within the CNMS. You will be responsible for performing microstructural characterization and expanding the utility of APT to explore non-traditional materials such as liquid-solid interfaces, soft matter, catalysts, semi- and non-conductors, oxide heterostructures, etc. In the traditional sense, you will be responsible for understanding basic microstructure, such as identifying the phase, phase distribution, precipitate volume fractions, composition profiles, etc., and linking these observations to mechanical and oxidation properties, correlating microstructural evolution to mechanical properties during processing, and microstructural evolution after long-term creep and oxidation/environmental exposures. To maintain leadership in atom probe research, CNMS recently acquired a Cameca local electrode atom probe (LEAP) model 6000XR and two new focused ion beam (FIB) instruments dedicated to preparing APT specimens – a conventional Ga+ FIB and a cryogenic plasma FIB (cryo-PFIB) – to enable the study of non-metallic specimens via APT, which will keep CNMS at the forefront of APT and enable you to conduct cutting-edge materials research across a much broader range of materials systems.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• A PhD in materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a related field
• Relevant experience in atom probe tomography

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or presentations at conferences
• Proficiency in APT data acquisition/processing using IVAS
• Hands-on experience with sample preparation using FIB methods
• Data coding and analysis skills using Python, MATLAB, or similar platforms.
• Some experience with analytical TEM/STEM techniques and exposure to X-ray and neutron scattering methods
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

• Support APT research efforts and oversee APT laboratories (LEAP and FIB instruments) within the CNMS, which will involve conducting APT experiments as part of the CNMS user program as well as performing independent research to advance the technique
• Perform microstructural characterization of various materials systems using APT and leverage new FIB capabilities to expand the utility of APT to study non-conventional materials
• Support the development of new collaborations and establish new research programs to integrate APT across ORNL
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.