Postdoctoral Research Associate - Neutron Scattering on Unconventional Magnets

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The Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science Division (CMPMSD) at Brookhaven National Laboratory conducts a wide-ranging research program investigating novel and quantum materials, as well as their potential applications. The neutron scattering group performs experiments investigating magnetic and structural properties of materials at national user facilities (such as the Spallation Neutron Source at Oak Ridge National Lab). We also work closely with other groups within CMPMSD with expertise in crystal growth, bulk and transport measurements, x-ray scattering, and condensed matter theory.

Position Description

We are searching for a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a 2-year term to characterize magnetism in single crystal samples using neutron scattering. This work is to be done as a part of a BNL Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD-B) project, focused on gathering experimental characterization of materials predicted to have non-relativistic spin-splitting of the electronic band structure due to their magnetic order (including the collinear altermagnets). Our goal is to provide a test of theoretical predictions in a selection of real materials predicted to have these unusual properties linked to their magnetic symmetry. The proposed work will include both inelastic and elastic neutron scattering, as well as collaboration with theorists, crystal growth experts, and other experimentalists.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Neutron scattering on single crystal samples, including elastic and inelastic measurements to characterize magnetic order and dynamics
• Analyzing data sets and interpreting results
• Preparing manuscripts for publication, and presenting results at scientific conferences
• Experimental planning, and preparing new beamtime proposals for ongoing research program

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ph.D. in physics or related discipline within the last 5 years
• Strong background in condensed matter physics
• Data analysis, including fitting and manipulation of large array-type data sets (using Python, Matlab or equivalent)
• Ability to communicate well, and work within a collaborative team environment

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience with neutron or x-ray scattering from single crystals
• Experience with characterizing magnetic and structural dynamics using neutron scattering
• Modeling neutron scattering from spin waves and phonons
• Familiarity with group theory, and an understanding of symmetry techniques useful for condensed matter physics (e.g. irreducible representations) would be an asset

Environmental, Health & Safety Requirements:

• Position will interact with Hazardous Chemicals (NFPA Health Hazard 3
  and 4-CMS Report)

Other Information:

• Work will be conducted on-site at the BNL campus in Upton, NY. Travel will be required for experiments at national user facilities, such as the Spallation Neutron Source at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

• 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.
• Candidates must have received a Ph.D. by the commencement of employment.

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