Postdoctoral Research Associate - Theory of Strongly Correlated Topological Quantum Materials

Requisition Id 13821 

Overview: 

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will focus on the development and/or application of quantum monte carlo (QMC) as well as other correlated electronics structure methods such as, GW and dynamical mean field theory (DMFT), as well as density functional theory, for strongly correlated topological quantum materials at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The applicant will work closely with scientists both at ORNL and institutions primarily associated with the Center for Predictive Simulation of Functional Materials (CPSFM, https://cpsfm.ornl.gov), which aims to develop and apply scalable quantum monte carlo (QMC) methods to problems in condensed matter theory using their flagship open-source QMCPACK code (www.qmcpack.org) and QMC methods. This position resides in the Nanomaterials Theory Institute Group with Dr. P. Ganesh in the Theory & Computation Section, Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at ORNL.  

 

The research you will conduct will focus on advancing our understanding of emergent properties in strongly correlated materials, specifically those with topologically protected quantum states, with the goal of revealing the complex interplay of spin, orbit, lattice symmetries and electron-electron correlations. These methods will, for example, enable us to predict with high accuracy properties of new quantum materials with potential applications in dissipationless nano-transport and topological quantum computation.  We are also interested in developing databases of material properties using accurate electronic structure methods using automated workflows as well as machine learning and artificial intelligence-based approaches that can inform and improve lower-fidelity methods based on these datasets. Independent and motivated candidates capable of generating novel ideas, planning and executing appropriate theoretical calculations, and extracting meaningful results through innovative analysis methods, working closely with experimental groups pursuing thin-film synthesis and nanoscale characterization, are encouraged to apply. A successful candidate should have a strong demonstrated background in both electronic structure methods and condensed matter theory/material science/physics/chemistry.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Conduct research to apply and/or develop correlated electronic-structure methods for strongly correlated quantum materials
• Report and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Present results at international scientific conferences and meetings when needed

 

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or closely related field completed within the last 5 years
• Strong background and hands-on experience in applying and/or developing electronic structure methods to correlated solids
• Strong publication list using modern electronic structure methods

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Good grasp of concepts in solid-state physics, topological condensed matter theory and/or quantum chemistry
• Familiarity with correlated electronic structure methods, particularly QMC and/or GW and/or DMFT
• Strong demonstrated background use of in Python for data analysis and automation, with knowledge or keen interest to meaningfully incorporate advanced AI/ML methods into their research 
• An excellent record of productive and creative research shown by a record of publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work both independently and in collaborative teams
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

 

Special Requirements:

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment len