Assistant Scientist - Data Driven and Autonomous Materials Discovery; CNM

Position: Assistant Scientist - Data Driven and Autonomous Materials Discovery (CNM)
Location: Lemont

The Theory and Modeling Group at the Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM) seeks an outstanding Assistant Scientist to lead and support frontier research at the intersection of AI/ML, data infrastructure, autonomous systems, and materials science. You will develop and apply advanced data-driven methodologies to accelerate discovery in materials design, characterization, and synthesis. The role combines self-directed and collaborative research aligned with CNM strategic themes, alongside scientific support for CNM users.

CNM is a DOE Office of Science user facility that provides researchers worldwide with world-class expertise and instrumentation for multidisciplinary nanoscience and nanotechnology. Learn more about CNM themes at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov

Focus Areas (expertise in one or more is highly desirable)

* AI/ML for predictive modeling and inverse design of nanomaterials

* Autonomous laboratories for materials synthesis and characterization

* Generative models, reinforcement learning, and agent-based approaches to streamline experimentation and accelerate discovery

* Integration of HPC, data infrastructure, and ML pipelines for data-driven and autonomous research

* Digital twins and simulation-augmented AI tools

* Interfacing AI tools with experimental facilities at CNM and Argonne

Key Responsibilities

Research leadership (50%)

* Develop and lead an independent and collaborative research program in computational materials science aligned with CNM strategic themes and the DOE mission

* Publish in refereed journals and present at conferences, symposia, and seminars

* Contribute to proposal development and assist with execution and reporting for CNM, DOE, and other sponsors

User program engagement (50%)

* Establish and maintain a vibrant, productive collaboration program with CNM users

* Provide scientific and technical support for user computational projects to ensure successful execution and growth of user-led research

Computational and HPC support

* Support end-users with HPC operations and maintenance issues, job optimization and scheduling, workflow understanding, and software installation

Collaboration and mentorship

* Collaborate with internal and external researchers to drive innovation in nanoscience and nanotechnology

* Contribute to CNM's strategic scientific directions through pioneering R&D.

* Provide work direction and mentorship to postdoctoral appointees, research assistants, students, and technical staff

Professional growth and operations

* Work toward promotion from Assistant Scientist to Scientist

* Manage vendor relationships as needed (hardware, cloud, managed support services)

Safety, security, and stewardship

* Execute all activities in compliance with Argonne's ES&H policies, Safeguards and Security policies, work rules, and safe practices

Position Requirements

* Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field

* Proven research track record in computational materials science and AI/ML, with applications in areas such as quantum information science, energy capture/storage/conversion, or microelectronics

* Demonstrated ability to formulate scientific problems in the design and theory of nanoscale systems relevant to the DOE portfolio

* Considerable skill in data management and high-performance computing, including workflow design and optimization

* Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with internal and external collaborators to achieve established goals

* Demonstrated ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment and provide scientific guidance to a diverse research community

* Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

How to Apply

Submit the following materials via the Argonne National Laboratory careers portal:

* Cover letter detailing how your experience and expertise align with and will contribute to this position

* Curriculum vitae with publication list and contact information for three professional references

* 2-page research statement outlining proposed research directions

* 1-page statement describing your approach to engaging…