Postdoctoral Research Associate

POSITION DESCRIPTION

This position will develop Python-based software interfaces that increase the autonomy of in-situ, operando, and high-throughput experiments. The work focuses on real-time process monitoring–data-quality checks, data reduction, analysis, and intelligent search–delivered as plugins to the Bluesky (NSLS-II) data-collection framework via APIs. The successful workflow will integrate new and existing tools to support multimodal measurements (XRD, total scattering/PDF, and UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy), enabling high-quality, high-throughput, time-resolved data and metadata generation for interactive use and AI-driven experiment steering.

The capabilities will directly support two application areas: (1) automated/autonomous colloidal nanomaterial synthesis and (2) materials synthesis and processing using direct Joule heating. The candidate will collaborate closely with NSLS-II XPD/PDF beamline staff on measurements, data acquisition, and analysis, and with the Data Science and Systems Integration (DSSI) division to integrate AI algorithms for data collection and analysis.

• Lead the reimplementation and modernization of an existing Python/Bluesky-based workflow for autonomous experimentation using an automated nanosynthesis reactor deployed at the 28ID-2 XPD beamline of NSLS-II.
• Develop and adapt APIs leveraging Bluesky frameworks and tools to acquire and analyze XRD and PDF data and integrate data inputs/outputs with the NSLS-II Bluesky data-acquisition ecosystem.
• Collaborate with researchers across disciplines (e.g., synthetic chemistry, machine learning, and AI) within BNL and with external partners.
• Publish and present research and software outcomes to the scientific community.

• PhD in Physical Sciences (Physics/Chemistry), Materials Science, or related fields; OR PhD in Computational Science with a BS or MS (or equivalent) in a Physical Science discipline.
• Fluency in programming with Python and scientific software development & deployment.
• Experience with inline, in-situ, or operando characterization data collection using X-ray and/or other methods.
• Demonstrated scientific contributions through publications and presentations in relevant areas.
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse, cross-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

• Software development involving AI/ML methods.
• Experience with materials synthesis; X-ray scattering/diffraction; and/or optical spectroscopy (UV-vis, NIR/IR) or related techniques.
• Experience developing data-analysis methods and workflows for diffraction/scattering (XRD, PDF/SAXS) and/or optical spectroscopy.
• Background in materials science, solid-state chemistry, or nanoscience.

Part of the Work is conducted in a wet chemistry lab, requiring lab PPE.

Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $74,000.00 - $88,000.00 / year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.

BNL policy requires that after obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.

Guided by our core values of integrity, responsibility, innovation, respect, and teamwork, Brookhaven Science Associates is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer-Vets/Disabled. We are committed to fostering a respectful and collaborative environment that fuels scientific discovery. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to any characteristic protected by law. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job…