Ames Laboratory Scientist I

Position Title:

Ames Laboratory Scientist I

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree and 3 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.
Extensive experience in AI/ML and high-performance computing.
Strong proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, C++, or Fortran).
Advanced knowledge and experience of ab initio methods for total energy, electronic and magnetic structure calculations and genetic algorithm for crystal structure predictions.
Proven experience in developing large-scale computational codes for advanced computing platforms.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated track record in advancing the field through research publications or awarded proposals.
Strong ability to lead/participate interdisciplinary research, collaborate across disciplines, and participate in national-level research initiatives.

Job Description:

Would you like to work for a National Laboratory that conducts world-renowned research?

Would you enjoy working on a diverse, beautiful, university campus? Can you imagine yourself

in a mid-sized location that regularly ranks as one of the U.S. Best Places to Live? If you

answered yes to any of these questions, you should consider a career with Ames National

Laboratory!

Ames Laboratory is a U.S. Department of Energy federally contracted National Laboratory located in Ames, Iowa, on the campus of Iowa State University. We are dedicated to translating foundational science through applied research to create technological innovations. We create materials, inspire minds to solve problems, and address some of the most challenging issues facing our world today. We promote and believe in a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, civility, and shared ownership in support of the Laboratory's collective success.

Ames National Laboratory is seeking an innovative and motivated Scientist I to join our Machine Learning Accelerated Materials Discovery Center. This position focuses on developing cutting-edge theoretical methods and computational frameworks that integrate machine learning and structure databases with materials modeling and simulation to enable transformative discoveries in materials science. Our team leverages the latest advancements in artificial intelligence/ machine learning  (AI/ML) and high-performance computing to accelerate the discovery and design of quantum materials, magnetic systems, and other advanced functional materials.

This position will lead research efforts in developing novel computational approaches, including AI/ML methods, interatomic potentials, and exascale-ready codes for materials discovery and design. The position will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to produce high-impact scientific outputs, advance the state-of-the-art in materials modeling, and contribute to the lab's leadership in national and international scientific research. Expertise in ab initio methods and advanced techniques in quantum many-body theory will also support electronic and magnetic calculation and analysis within the center. The position will also involve preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications, presenting at scientific meetings, preparing reports and presentations for group meetings, and leading or contributing to proposal writing efforts.

Appointment Type:

Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

February 2, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS810

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

3) List of Professional Refernces

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and lon