The Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM) at Argonne National Laboratory seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join a multidisciplinary team advancing quantum information science through the design and synthesis of nanoscale epitaxial oxide thin films. This position supports a three-year Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project focused on developing scalable photonic platforms for hybrid quantum systems. The role offers a unique opportunity to engage in advanced materials synthesis, nanofabrication, and multimodal characterization using Argonneās world-class resourcesāincluding the Autonomous Sputter Beam Epitaxy system, the QuEEN-M electron microscopy platform, and synchrotron X-ray beamlines at the Advanced Photon Source. This is an outstanding opportunity for candidates interested in the intersection of complex oxide epitaxy, quantum information, and nanophotonic to contribute to high-impact science at a national user facility.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and optimize epitaxial growth of complex oxide nanostructures, especially ferroelectrics, via solid-phase epitaxy (SPE)
Perform thin-film and device characterization across structural (XRD, AFM, SEM, XPS, TEM), optical, cryogenic, and synchrotron X-ray environments
Fabricate photonic and metamaterial structures using advanced nanofabrication tools (e.g., lithography, dry etching)
Contribute to the development and testing of electro-optic (EO) devices integrated with photonic and microwave platforms
Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team across CNM, the Advanced Photon Source (APS), Materials Science Division (MSD), and Quantum Information Science (QIS) programs
Disseminate results through high-impact publications and presentations at internal and external meetings
Position Requirements
Position Requirements
Recent or soon-to-be-completed Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
Hands-on experience in epitaxial thin-film growth and characterization (oxides preferred), using sputtering (preferred), PLD, or MBE
Proficiency in thin-film characterization tools such as XRD, AFM, SEM, XPS, TEM, etc.
Experience with nanofabrication, particularly lithography and thin-film processing
Strong background in ferroelectrics, photonics, or solid-state materials
Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
Strong written and oral communication skills
Ability to model Argonneās core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with synchrotron-based X-ray techniques and electron microscopy
Experience with optical characterization and EO device testing
Background in quantum devices, nonlinear optics, or microwave photonics
Working knowledge of simulation tools such as COMSOL or Lumerical for electro-optic modeling
Desirable Skills
Data analysis using Python
Experience with autonomous or AI-assisted synthesis workflows
Familiarity with quantum transduction or quantum information science
Application Materials
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Cover Letter describing research experience and fit for the role
Contact information for three references
Job Family
PostdoctoralJob Profile
Postdoctoral AppointeeWorker Type
Long-Term (Fixed Term)Time Type
Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $72,879.00-$121,465.00.Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
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