The Time-Resolved Research Group in the X-ray Science Division at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a Postdoctoral Appointee. The role focuses on developing ultrafast pump–probe total X-ray scattering (TXS) and pair distribution function (PDF) analysis capabilities and methodology to study laser-driven structural dynamics in functional materials. This position is part of a collaborative effort across XSD, the Materials Science Division (MSD), and the Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division (CSE).
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and enhance pump–probe sub-nanosecond TXS method.
Design, implement, and validate experimental setups; conduct synchrotron-based measurements on quantum and energy materials.
Build robust data reduction and PDF analysis workflows; document best practices.
Collaborate across divisions and interdisciplinary teams; ensure safe operations.
Analyze results, publish peer-reviewed papers, and present at scientific meetings.
Appointment Details:
Postdoctoral appointment; initial term up to two years with potential extension based on performance and funding.
On-site position at Argonne; work primarily conducted at the Advanced Photon Source.
Beamtimes may require occasional evening/weekend hours.
Position Requirements
PhD (completed within the last five years, or soon to be completed) in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
Background in ultrafast science (e.g., pump–probe methods).
Experience with synchrotron X-ray experiments.
Experience with instrumentation development.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary team.
Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
Interpersonal skills, oral and written communication skills, and ability to interact with people at all levels both within and outside the laboratory.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
Experience with X-ray scattering/diffraction and quantitative data analysis and modeling.
Familiarity with total scattering/PDF techniques and related software.
Hands-on experience with lasers, timing/synchronization, or detector systems.
Scientific programming skills (e.g., Python) for data processing and visualization.
Job Family
Postdoctoral
Job Profile
Postdoctoral Appointee
Worker Type
Long-Term (Fixed Term)
Time Type
Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $70,758.00-$117,925.00.
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.
Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!
As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.
Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.
All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.
