We invite you to apply for a Postdoctoral Appointee position within our Materials Science Division (MSD).

The research project focuses on understanding the local electromechanical energy transduction, electronic/ionic transport and polarization reversal behavior as a function of mechanical, electrical and thermal stimuli in ferroelectric and multiferroic materials. One particular focus will be on deciphering collective behavior of different spatially fluctuating state variables in complex and binary oxide ferroelectric materials. The project will heavily involve use of a scanning probe microscope and a variable temperature electrical probe station. The post-holder will also be responsible for maintaining collaboration with theory groups, electronic/ionic transport simulation and correlating them with ferroelectric polarization, domains, and domain wall characteristics.

Candidates should have experience with or an enthusiastic interest in learning new techniques of measurement, specifically various modes of scanning probe microscopy. This position will involve a considerable amount of experimental laboratory work with a variety of ferroelectric materials. The work will also include a variety of physical measurements in the laboratory and at user facilities. A strong, demonstrated commitment to collaborative science is essential. Results will be published in refereed journals and through oral presentations at meetings, conferences, symposia, and seminars. Up-to-date awareness of developments in the relevant areas of research will be expected.

Interested candidates should apply through the Argonne web site at http://www.anl.gov/careers (requisition number MSD TBD). More information on the Materials Science Division can be found at https://www.anl.gov/MSD

Questions should be directed to sbakaul@anl.gov

Position Requirements

• Ph.D. (< 3 yrs. since Ph.D.) in Physics/Applied Physics/Materials Science/Electrical engineering.

• Candidates should have experience with or an enthusiastic interest in learning new techniques, specifically various modes of scanning probe microscopy and electronic transport measurement. This position will include a variety of physical measurements in the laboratory and at user facilities. A strong, demonstrated commitment to collaborative science is essential.

• Results will be published in refereed journals and through oral presentations at meetings, conferences, symposia, and seminars. Up-to-date awareness of developments in the relevant areas of research and excellent knowledge of English (oral and written) and communication skill will be expected.

• Prior experience in working with electronic materials, oxide ferroelectrics, and solid-state memory are desired. Familiarity with dielectric materials, piezoelectricity, electrostriction, magnetism, phase-field modeling, energy band diagram, numerical simulation using MATLAB or relevant software will be a plus. A strong experimental and theoretical background in piezo response force microscopy, electrostatic force microscopy, electrochemical strain microscopy, microwave impedance microscopy, c-AFM, Kelvin probe microscopy, magnetic force microscopy, and scanning tunneling microscopy is expected. The candidate should also have experience with lock-in amplifier, impedance analyzer, variable temperature probe station, and nanofabrication tools.

• The candidate is expected to think and work independently and conduct research in a highly interdisciplinary environment of scientists with backgrounds in electronic engineering, materials science, and physics.

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