Postdoctoral Research Associate in in-situ​/operando X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy

What You Will Do

The Materials Science and Technology Structure/Property Relations (MST-8) group at Los Alamos National Laboratory seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop and apply advanced in situ and operando X-ray spectroscopy techniques to understand the chemistry and local structure of critical materials during chemical separation and electrochemical processes.

The successful candidate will use synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), including (HERFD) XANES and EXAFS, together with complementary characterization techniques to investigate coordination chemistry, chemical speciation, and reaction mechanisms under relevant processing conditions. Research opportunities include rare-earth and other critical-material systems, with an emphasis on understanding how local chemical environments and interfacial processes influence separation and electrochemical behavior.

The postdoctoral researcher will design and conduct experiments at DOE Office of Science synchrotron user facilities, develop in situ and operando sample environments, analyze and interpret spectroscopic datasets, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams at Los Alamos National Laboratory and partner institutions. This position offers opportunities to lead beamtime campaigns, publish high-impact research, and contribute to the development of next-generation characterization capabilities for critical-materials research.

Education/

Experience:

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field completed within the last five years.

• Strong background in synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy, particularly X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), including XANES and/or EXAFS.
• Hands-on research experience with operando and/or in situ spectroscopy for studying chemical or materials processes.
• Demonstrated background in fundamental and/or applied electrochemistry.
• Hands on physical research experience, especially in the areas of electrochemistry, corrosion science, and surface characterization techniques.
• Experience with complementary characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, electron microscopy, or X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
• Demonstrated ability to work creatively and independently as well as learn and collaborate with experts as a part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Excellent communication and writing skills, as evidenced by publications, cover letter and interview.

• In addition to the minimum requirements, the following qualifications are desired, and preference will be given to candidates satisfying (at least one) of them:
• Experience developing in situ or operando sample environments, including electrochemical cells for synchrotron measurements
• Experience with electrochemistry, electrode position, or electrochemical interfaces, particularly in non-aqueous or concentrated electrolyte systems.
• Experience with rare-earth, actinide, or other f-element chemistry, including coordination chemistry and chemical speciation.
• Experience with advanced X-ray spectroscopy techniques, such as X-ray emission spectroscopy, HERFD-XANES, or related method
• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or similar scientific computing environments.
• Experience integrating spectroscopy with complementary characterization techniques, such as XRD, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, or electron microscopy.
• Familiarity with computational spectroscopy or electronic-structure calculations used to support interpretation of experimental data
• Demonstrated ability to work productively across multiple collaborative research projects.

(can perform with or without reasonable accommodation):

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

Fulltime or part time options available

Postdoc

Dr. Arjen van Veelen (arjen.vanveelen)

Dr. Alex Mirabal (mirabal)

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities…