Postdoc Research Associate- Atomic-Resolution Optical Spectroscopies w/Scanning Tunneling Microscopy

Requisition Id 15496

Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop advanced optical spectroscopy capabilities—including atomic-resolution electroluminescence (EL), tip-enhanced photoluminescence (PL), and tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS)—integrated with multi-probe scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) platforms. This position resides in the Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Group in the Nanomaterials Characterization Section of the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences Division in the Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will focus on the development of novel multimodal optical spectroscopy methods and their integration with existing STM platforms. These capabilities will enable atomic-scale imaging and spectroscopy of structural, electronic, and optoelectronic properties in low-dimensional materials and their heterogeneities.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity to conduct research at the intersection of advanced scanning probe microscopy, solid-state single-photon emitters, nanoscale optoelectronics, and fundamental materials science. As a member of our team, the successful candidate will investigate emerging solid-state single-photon emitters and explore the optoelectronic properties of quantum and low-dimensional materials, contributing to both fundamental discovery and the advancement of next-generation technologies.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Design and develop an experimental setup for STM based, atomically resolved electroluminescence (STM-EL), tip-enhanced photoluminescence (STM-PL) or/and Raman Spectroscopy (STM-TERS).
• Validate the capabilities of the new set-up using selected model systems.
• Conduct experimental research to correlate structural, electronic and opto-electronic properties of solid-state single-photon sources such as color centers in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and other low-dimensional materials
• Learn how to operate an existing cryogenic multi-probe STM to develop nanoscale transport measurements under optical excitation.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present research findings at international conferences and workshops.
• Adhere to and promote environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Maintain a commitment to ORNL's values and ethics and contribute to a productive scientific community.
• 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.

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in physics, physical chemistry, materials science, optical sciences, electrical engineering, or a related field obtained within the last 5 years.
• Hands-on experience with lasers, general optical setups and spectroscopic measurements and/or in tip-enhanced optical imaging and spectroscopy

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in spatially resolved, tip enhanced Raman Spectroscopy with STM or scanning near-field optical microscopy
• Experience in spatially resolved optical characterization of SPEs
• Familiarity with collection of ultralow light signals
• A background in instrument development or detailed understanding of SPM equipment
• A strong record of innovative research as evidenced by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at significant conferences.
• Advanced programming and data visualization skills.
• 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.

Special Requirements:

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

Postdocs:

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Letters of Recommendation:

Three letters of reference are required. You can upload these directly to your application or have them sent to with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

• Login to your account via
• View Profile
• Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email:

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

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ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.