Group Leader- Quantum Heterostructure

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Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Group Leader for the Quantum Heterostructures (QHS) Group within the Foundational and Quantum Materials Science Section of the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD).

The QHS research group focuses on quantum phenomena arising from the interplay of topology and strong electronic correlations. The group synthesizes and investigates novel quantum materials and atomic-scale structures. Achieving these objectives requires the integration of advanced characterization methods and device fabrication capabilities for high-quality epitaxial films, heterostructures, and bulk quantum-material platforms that serve as functional substrates, with potential applications in microelectronics and quantum information technologies.

The Group Leader will provide scientific and R&D leadership for a multidisciplinary team, shape the group’s strategic vision, and ensure excellence in research execution, operational performance, and safety. The successful candidate will represent the group within MSTD and external sponsors and collaborators; develop and secure research funding; publish and present impactful results; and cultivate a collaborative environment that supports the professional development of researchers.

Relevant capabilities and expertise may include any of the following: molecular beam epitaxy, pulsed-laser deposition, spin- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, neutron scattering, X-ray scattering and spectroscopy, quantum sensing and control, and quantum-device physics.

• Define and implement a cohesive research strategy that advances the priorities of the QHS Group, MSTD, and ORNL.
• Recruit, hire, retain, and develop talented scientists and technical staff.
• Mentor staff members, postdoctoral researchers, and students; establish clear performance expectations and support career development.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, scientific excellence, and continuous learning.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities; lead proposal development; and manage sponsored research projects.
• Build strategic partnerships with industry, academia, national laboratories, and government agencies to expand the group’s impact and resources.
• Champion safety, security, and ethical research practices; ensure compliance with ORNL policies and Environment, Safety, Health, and Quality (ESH&Q) standards.
• Represent the QHS Group and MSTD at scientific conferences, sponsor meetings, and stakeholder briefings.
• Support ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with the laboratory’s core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

• Ph.D. in materials science, condensed matter physics, materials chemistry, quantum information science, or a related field.
• At least 6 years of relevant R&D experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more areas relevant to the QHS Group, such as epitaxial thin-film synthesis, quantum materials, topological materials, strongly correlated systems, advanced scattering or spectroscopy, quantum sensing, or quantum-device physics.
• Demonstrated ability to obtain external research funding and lead R&D teams, programs, or major initiatives.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills necessary to lead a multidisciplinary research group.

• At least 10 years of experience in an R&D-focused…