Research Scientist, Automated Quantum Materials Discovery

at  Oak Ridge National Laboratory

OVERVIEW:

We are looking for an experienced scientist who will focus on leading and taking part in multiple R&D projects, to develop physics-informed machine learning solutions and workflows that integrate synthesis, in-situ characterization and advanced modeling and simulation to enable automated materials discovery for quantum devices.
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an extraordinary 80-year history of solving the nation’s biggest problems. We have a dedicated and creative staff of over 6,000 people! Our vision for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is to cultivate an environment and practices that foster diversity in ideas and in the people across the organization, as well as to ensure ORNL is recognized as a workplace of choice. These elements are critical for enabling the execution of ORNL’s broader mission to accelerate scientific discoveries and their translation into energy, environment, and security solutions for the nation.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Ph.D. in computational condensed matter physics, materials science, or a related field
• Expertise in data science and machine learning
• 2+ years of relevant research experience beyond the Ph.D.
• Knowledge of quantum materials.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong background in developing AI/ML-based workflows for automatized materials prediction, synthesis and characterization
• Independent research competence as proven by a significant number of national and/or international peer-reviewed publications and a sustained publication record.
• Proven ability to secure research funding from sponsors (federal or within the private sector)
• Proven ability to lead research teams/efforts.
• 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.

• Participate in new and ongoing research in HPC-based modeling and simulation combined with the development of AI/ML-based workflows for materials discovery for quantum device development.
• Formulate novel solutions to problems of national interest and to plan and implement the research and development necessary for the practical implementation of those solutions.
• Lead and take part in multiple R&D projects.
• Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national and international audiences at all levels.
• Work with customers independently or in teams to develop requirements and proposals, conduct research, and produce working prototypes for demonstration.
• Write peer-reviewed papers, technical reports, and proposals for internal and external release and represent the organization by giving technical presentations in large public forums.
• Represent ORNL as a subject matter expert.
• Promote the development of junior researchers through mentorship.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by encouraging a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.