Postdoctoral Research Associate Catalysis and X-ray Spectroscopy

Organizational Overview

The Hard X-ray Scattering & Spectroscopy (HXSS) program at BNL’s National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) offers world-class capabilities for studying complex and heterogeneous materials under in situ and operando conditions. The program provides advanced spectroscopy, diffraction, and imaging x-ray tools, supported by computational resources for high-throughput analysis and modeling. One of the leading research directions in the HXSS science program is heterogeneous catalysis with emphasis on in situ and operando characterization. The Inner Shell Spectroscopy (ISS) beamline is a frontier X-ray spectroscopy instrument allowing high throughput and high energy resolution studies of a variety of catalysts. ISS is aimed at establishing structure-function relationships under relevant reaction conditions.

Position Description

NSLS-II is seeking exceptional candidates for a research associate position in the Hard X-ray Scattering and Spectroscopy program. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with the ISS team and supporting technical, engineering and controls staff. They will be involved in developing, commissioning, and testing custom sample environments for catalysis experiments, including high pressure gas and integration of the high energy resolution spectrometers in the ISS operando catalysis research infrastructure. They will also be involved in the support of the users at the beamline, including industrial partners. Leveraging the technical developments, the successful candidate will conduct mechanistic studies of catalytic carbon dioxide hydrogenation at high pressures in collaboration with ISS scientists.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop, commission, and test new catalysis infrastructure at the ISS beamline.
• Take part in the logistic work required for successful beamline user operation
• Participate in experiment planning, execution, translation of results into new scientific knowledge.
• Disseminate scientific results as manuscripts, conference presentations, progress reports etc.
• Develop and maintain safe practices and working conditions.

Position Requirements

• A PhD in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science
• Understanding of heterogeneous catalytic reaction mechanisms, demonstrated by a publication record
• Knowledge of in-situ/operando characterization applied to heterogeneous catalysis, relevant instrumentation and data analysis methods
• Experience with synchrotron X-ray characterization techniques
• Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills
• Demonstrated organizational and planning skills and methodical record-keeping
• Ability to work in a collaborative team environment

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated record of applying X-ray absorption spectroscopy to solve problems in heterogenous catalysis
• Knowledge of X-ray absorption spectroscopy data modelling including advanced quantum methods
• Expertise with sample environment development and applications
• Proficiency in programming using Python or equivalent languages 

OTHER INFORMATION:

• BNL policy requires that after obtaining their 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.

At Brookhaven National Laboratory we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive. Our benefits program includes, but is not limited to:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Care Plans
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Time-off and Leave Programs (vacation, holidays, sick leave, paid parental leave)
• 401(k) Plan
• Flexible Work Arrangements
• Tuition Assistance, Training and Professional Development Programs
• Employee Fitness/Wellness & Recreation:  Gym/Basketball Courts, Weight Room, Fitness Classes, Indoor Pool, Tennis Courts, Sports Clubs/Activities (Basketball, Table Tennis Pong, Softball, Tennis)

Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Energy and Photon Sciences Directorate are committed to your success. We offer a supportive work environment and the resources necessary for you to succeed.