Job Information
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory Research Assoc-Experimental - Automation and Remote Experiments in Menlo Park, California
Research Assoc-Experimental - Automation and Remote Experiments
Job ID
6006
Location
SLAC - Menlo Park, CA
Full-Time
Temporary
SLAC Job Postings
Position overview:
The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is seeking a postdoctoral Research Associate (RA) to develop and support automated and remote experimental capabilities at hard X-ray scattering beamlines. We are looking for a highly motivated, experienced scientist to further develop and help support automation at various beamlines with a focus on the remote mail-in powder diffraction program at SSRL. The RA will further develop these capabilities to encompass a fully automated instrument for high-throughput powder diffraction capable of supporting both ex-situ as well as in-situ and operando experiments. Opportunities to explore novel approaches to beamline experimentation will be available. The successful candidate will work closely with our existing user base to support this capability and expand the user base through outreach. Support of on-site users is an additional component of this role and will involve coordinating with users to understand their scientific objectives, on-boarding and training users at the beamline, and working with users on data analysis and interpretation. It is expected that this support role will focus primarily on the use of powder diffraction methods for a range of scientific questions.
In addition to user support and development of automated approaches to measurement, the RA will be expected to lead and develop an independent research effort. The RA will have the opportunity to publish lead-author manuscripts and to build a career in X-ray science, materials and/or data science, or a future teaching career.
Note: The Research Associate role is a fixed term staff position. Appointment duration is 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding.
Applicants must provide evidence of either a recently completed PhD degree or confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Applicants should also include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae which includes a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application.
To be successful in this position you will bring:
PhD in physics, chemistry, material science, or equivalent field
Strong knowledge of beamline instrumentation and hands-on experience with data collection at synchrotron beamlines
Experience in analyzing data from either X-ray or neutron powder diffraction
Knowledge in one or more fields of solid-state research (e.g. battery materials, hydrogen storage, polymers, photovoltaics, etc.) using X-ray scattering for structure characterization
Experience in user operation and design & construction of automated experiments
Basic knowledge of programming languages, preferably Python
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population; good interpersonal skills are essential
Ability to work independently and in a team environment
SLAC employee competencies:
Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
Physical requirements and Working conditions:
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of their job.
Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work
Work standards:
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford/SLAC colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1—General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
Classification Title: Research Associate Experimental
Job code: 0127, Grade: G
Employment Duration: Fixed term – 24 months
The expected pay range for this position is $70,000 to $100,000 per annum. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. 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, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. All staff at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory must be able to demonstrate the legal right to work in the United States. SLAC is an E-Verify employer.