• Quantum Materials Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Postdoc: Strongly Correlated Electron System (SCES

    Los Alamos National LaboratoryLos Alamos, NM 87544

    Job #2640345401

  • What You Will Do

    The Strongly Correlated Electron System (SCES) Team at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has an immediate opening for up to two postdoctoral positions with an emphasis on spectroscopic characterization of quantum materials using solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) spectroscopy. Our multifaceted, highly collaborative team utilizes capabilities in sample growth, characterization, device fabrication, and measurements under extreme conditions (high pressure, high fields, and low temperature). Our goal is to explore new and exotic physics by seeking novel materials design and functionalities. Our interests for this postdoc position include (but are not limited to): topological matter, heavy fermion physics, quantum magnetism, low-dimensional physics, unconventional superconductivity, quantum criticality, actinide physics and chemistry including uranium-235 and plutonium-239, and new phases of quantum matter. The successful applicant will benefit not only from a highly interactive environment within our team but also from the close proximity to the NHMFL pulsed magnetic field facility (MPA-MAGLAB), the Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies (MPA-CINT), and the theoretical condensed matter group (T-4). We seek highly motivated individuals who are passionate about science to develop and explore new ideas on quantum materials. Any inquiries about this specific opening and other opportunities within our group are welcome and should be sent to ~~~

    What You Need

    Minimum Job Requirements:

    • Strong background and interest in experimental condensed matter physics (or chemistry)

    • High motivation in exploring new and exciting physics in f-electron quantum materials

    • The ability to communicate effectively across multiple levels of peers and supervisors within the SCES team and beyond

    • Good written and oral communication skills in English

    • The ability to work independently and creatively, but also as part of a team through intra-team collaborations at different levels potentially in multiple projects

    • Demonstrated abilities in writing peer reviewed publications or short proposals

    • Experience in one or more of the following areas:

    o Conducting experiments and analyzing data independently for solid-state NMR/NQR spectroscopy using both poly- and/or single-crystalline samples

    o Knowledge in using NMR spectrometers and associated radio-frequency electronics (e.g., Tecmag Apollo and Redstone) and writing pulse sequences

    o Experience in handling cryogenic equipment such as LHe and LN2 dewars, superconducting magnets, and cryostats (including but not restricted to VTI, He-3, and dilution refrigerator)

    o Basic understanding in using and writing code to do data analysis and simulations

    Education: A Ph.D. in Physics completed within the past five years or soon to be completed is required. The candidate will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by commencement of the appointment.

    Desired Qualifications:

    • Background in the physics of correlated electron systems in f-electron materials and others

    • Experience with high-pressure (>1 GPa) cells at cryogenic temperature

    • Knowledge in using temperature controllers (e.g., Lake Shore and Cryocon), Magnet Power supplies, and radio-frequency power amplifiers

    • Experience designing, building, and maintaining custom-built cryogenic NMR probes

    • Knowledge of Python programming language or similar languages

    Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

    Salary: Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $92,000. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at ~~~ .

    Note to Applicants:

    Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the positions are filled. In addition to applying on-line, please submit a Curriculum Vitae (CV), publication list, a brief statement of research interests and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of 3 potential references to Michihiro Hirata ( ~~~ ). Please include a cover letter addressing how you meet the required and desired skills when applying for the position. A current CV with the minimum following information/sections is also required: Educational background, degree dates; Work experience; Competitive honors; Relevant extracurricular activities; Peer-Reviewed Publications; Non-peer-reviewed Publications; References. Only complete applications with a cover letter and CV will be considered. References will not be contacted without permission from the applicant.

    Where You Will Work

    Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

    § PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network

    § Dental and vision insurance

    § Free basic life and disability insurance

    § Paid childbirth and parental leave

    § Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)

    § Learning opportunities and tuition assistance

    § Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)

    § Onsite gyms and wellness programs

    § Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

    Additional Details

    Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 (~~~) . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

    Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.

    New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.

    Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to ~~~ or call ~~~ option 1.