Postdoctoral Research Associate - Condensed Matter Theory

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Condensed Matter Theory

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will develop and apply computational methods based on electronic structure theory and artificial intelligence approaches with emphasis on electronic properties of a range of quantum materials important to the DOE mission. Research efforts will include application of Quantum Monte Carlo, density functional theory, and associated models to describe various properties of DOE-relevant quantum materials.

The incumbent will have opportunities to develop research methodologies as well as collaborate with experimental groups at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop and use first principles methods to describe electronic and magnetic structure, excitations and interactions, phase stability, in a range of quantum materials
• Present and report key scientific results and publish high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD related to computational or theoretical condensed matter physics, theoretical chemistry, theoretical materials science, or other closely related field completed within the last 5 years
• Experience with computational modeling of electronic and magnetic properties

Preferred Qualifications:

• An excellent record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience
• Scientifically curious and self-motivated with the ability to participate creatively in a collaborative environment
• Demonstrated experience with electronic structure methods including Quantum Monte Carlo or other many-body ab-initio methods for description of electronic, magnetic, and vibrational properties in a range of materials
• Expertise with artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches will be also considered

Special Requirements:

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:
For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background check investigation.

About ORNL:
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment.

These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.