Surface Analysis Research Specialist

The Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR) has an immediate opening for a Surface Analysis Research Specialist (job class Research Support Specialist III). This position serves as a vital member of CCMR’s team of experts supporting fundamental materials research in our core facility on the Ithaca campus. CCMR encourages applications from individuals who have the skills and desire to enable cutting-edge research and train the next generation of researchers.

The successful candidate will bring advanced training in a relevant discipline (e.g., materials science, physical science, or engineering) and experience with X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and related surface analysis techniques. A self-motivated work ethic along with excellent communications and interpersonal skills will be critical to success in this role. The position is ideal for someone who enjoys collaborating with others and who can adeptly operate scientific instrumentation, optimize sample analyses, and prioritize multiple, changing tasks.

As Surface Analysis Research Specialist, you will directly support surface analysis techniques, primarily XPS (Xray photoemission spectroscopy) and profilometry, but also other techniques such as electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, spectroscopy, or focused ion beam. You will develop analytical techniques, find creative solutions to research requests, and upgrade and troubleshoot instrumentation. Along with other team members, you will work closely with facility users to plan measurements and provide hands‑on training.

• Training researchers on safe and proper use of moderately complex instrumentation, ensuring acquisition of high-quality data
• Developing new protocols and procedures in XPS, electron microscopy, scanned probe microscopy, confocal microscopy, and more.
• Performing analyses for off-campus users and compiling research summary reports
• Developing instrument use (standard operating procedures) and lab safety protocols
• Documenting and disseminating procedures via training sessions, online documentation, and video tutorials
• Working with instrument vendors to improve or update instrument capabilities
• Monitoring records of equipment usage and maintenance for accounting, safety, and billing purposes
• Performing routine preventative maintenance tasks and procuring inventory, supplies, and maintenance items

The Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR) supports fundamental materials research and serves students, scientists, and researchers from Cornell and other academic, government, or industry researchers from around the world. This vibrant and active facility of shared instrumentation is overseen by expert facility staff who maintain instruments, train the next generation of materials researchers, and analyze samples as a service for offsite customers.

• Master’s degree in materials science, physical science, engineering, or similar discipline and 3–5 years’ experience with XPS (x-ray photoemission spectroscopy) and related surface analysis techniques, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
• Demonstrated strong work ethic and self‑motivation
• Ability to work independently as well as collaborate effectively with others
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Desire to enable cutting‑edge research and train the next generation of researchers
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members

• Ph.D. in materials science, physical science, engineering, or similar discipline
• Experience with atomic force microscopy and…