Post Doctorate Research Associate - Surface Science Catalysis

Position: Post Doctorate Research Associate - Surface Science for Catalysis
** Overview*
* At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.

Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.

The Physical and Computational Sciences Directorate's (PCSD's) strengths in experimental, computational, and theoretical chemistry and materials science, together with our advanced computing, applied mathematics and data science capabilities, are central to the discovery mission we embrace  our most important resource is our people-experts across the range of scientific disciplines who team together to take on the biggest scientific challenges of our time. 

The Physical Sciences Division stewards discovery science research portfolios including catalysis, materials science, separations, analytical chemistry, geosciences, and chemical physics. Our research strives to refine our molecular-level understanding of multiphase systems and phenomena including complex interfaces. We discover and apply new knowledge to address major national priorities and needs in energy sustainability through the development of new energy storage technologies and the creation of high-value fuels and materials from abundant wastes.

** Responsibilities*
* We are seeking a  
** Post Doctorate Research Associate
** to contribute to the experimental Surface Science effort within PNNL's BES Catalysis program. As a postdoctoral researcher in the  
** Catalysis Science
** group, you will join a talented, multi-investigator team to explore catalytic reactions that are central to energy and chemical transformations. This position will specifically focus on the detailed mechanistic understanding of hydrogenation, deoxygenation, and C-C coupling and cleavage chemistries of organic oxygenates and hydrocarbons found in feed stocks. To achieve this goal, we are developing well-defined model catalytic systems using single-metal-atoms and monodispersed-oxide-clusters on oxide surfaces and two-dimensional materials.

The experimental methods employed in these studies will primarily include scanning tunneling microscopy, molecular beam scattering, temperature-programmed reaction spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The chemistry will be explored under ultra-high vacuum, near ambient pressure, and in the condensed phase. The studies carried out by the selected candidate will be closely coupled with parallel theoretical investigations.

+ Conduct independent research and work on team assignments

+ Lead manuscript development and maintain a strong overall publication record in the peer-reviewed scientific literature

+ Interact, communicate, and problem solve with a diverse team of research staff within the Catalysis Science Group, Physical Sciences Division, and across PNNL

+ Present research at technical conferences and project/program review meetings

+ Participate in the development of research proposals

If you are a postdoctoral researcher ready to test your talents and training in Catalysis Science and hone your skills at a national laboratory widely recognized for its work in the physical sciences, we want to connect with you. Details are below; you do not need to meet all of the preferred qualifications to be considered.

** Qualifications*
* Minimum Qualifications:

+ Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:

+ Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering or related field

+ Training and aptitude in Surface Science

+

Experience with ultra-high vacuum is essential

+ Proficiency with a range of surface-sensitive spectroscopic techniques such as temperature programmed spectroscopy, infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

+ Strong verbal and written communication skills

** Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment*
* Not Applicable

** Testing Designated Position*
* This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

** About PNNL*
* Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington…