We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the Functional Coatings Group in the Applied Materials Division at Argonne National Laboratory to conduct advanced research in thin film coatings.

The primary goal of this work is aimed at advancing next-generation detectors for applications including high energy physics, medical imaging, astronomy, and homeland security. The focus is to develop atomic layer deposition (ALD) and atomic layer etching (ALE) methods to tailor the surface properties of microchannel plate (MCP) electron multipliers that act as image-preserving amplifiers in ultrafast detectors.  Advanced materials design and characterization will be pursued through various strategies. The candidate is expected to have knowledge of ALD process development and equipment. An understanding of bulk and thin film materials characterization techniques such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, spectroscopic ellipsometry, X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and electrical characterization is required. The successful candidate is also expected to aid in the design, analysis, and interpretation of experiments as well as present findings to the community through publications and presentations. The knowledge gained in the course of this work will directly contribute to achieving DOE goals of high-performance photodetectors.

Position Requirements

• Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, or materials science with 0 to 2 years of experience, or the equivalent experience through practical application in a laboratory.

• Knowledge of and experience with atomic layer deposition methods and equipment.

• Knowledge of and experience with thin film characterization.

• Knowledge of and experience with electronic measurements of thin films and semiconductor materials highly desirable.

• Skill working interactively and productively in a multidisciplinary environment.

• Skill in oral and written communication.

• Record of publication and external recognition in these areas.

• Ability to work independently on a day-to-day basis.

• Demonstrated interpersonal, oral, and written communication.

• Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

U.S. Citizenship

Other: To perform the essential functions of this position successful applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or Permanent Residency, which is required to comply with federal regulations and contract. Illegal drug testing as defined in 10 CFR 707.4 and a background investigation will be required prior to employment.

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As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, Argonne encourages minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment. Argonne considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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