Postdoctoral Researcher

Under the close supervision of an Associate Professor, the Postdoctoral Researcher receives advanced practical education and research training beyond the terminal degree while conducting experiments, analyzing and interpreting data, and contributing to the development and application of synchrotron-based research capabilities. Research assignments may vary based on the incumbent’s area of expertise, assigned research projects, and the scientific applications supported by the Louisiana Light Source. The Postdoctoral Researcher collaborates with LLS scientists, LSU faculty and students, and external research collaborators on interdisciplinary research involving materials science, condensed matter physics, nanoscience, surface science, chemical and electronic structure characterization, and related areas. The incumbent disseminates research findings through scholarly publications, technical reports, and conference presentations.

Job Responsibilities:

Research and Experimentation - Under the close supervision of an Associate Professor, conducts experiments and performs specialized research involving synchrotron-based techniques and related methods. Develops research approaches, prepares samples, collects and analyzes experimental data, interprets research findings, and maintains appropriate research records. Research assignments may vary based on current projects, scientific collaborations, and the capabilities of the beam lines and experimental end-stations. (40%)

Research Instrumentation and Methods Development - Participates in the development, testing, calibration, alignment, commissioning, and optimization of beam line components, experimental end-stations, ultra-high-vacuum systems, and associated research instrumentation as part of assigned research projects. Contributes to the evaluation and advancement of experimental methods and research capabilities under faculty supervision and in collaboration with LLS scientific and technical personnel. (25%)

Collaborative Research and Scientific Support - Collaborates with LLS scientists, LSU faculty and students, and external researchers in planning and conducting beamline-based experiments. Provides research-related assistance with experimental setup, data collection, and the use of applicable scientific methods and instrumentation. Contributes scientific expertise to interdisciplinary research activities while receiving exposure to a range of synchrotron-based applications and research techniques. (15%)

Scholarly Dissemination - Analyzes and interprets research results and contributes to peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, research reports, and other scholarly products. Presents findings to faculty, collaborators, students, and professional or scientific audiences, as appropriate. (10%)

Research Training and Project Support - Participates in advanced research training, professional-development activities, scientific meetings, and collaborative learning opportunities related to the incumbent’s area of research. Assists with the preparation of grant proposals, technical documentation, experimental procedures, project reports, and other research-related materials. Performs other research-related duties as assigned. (10%)

Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D in a related field with related coursework in a discipline relevant to the area of research.

Preferred Qualifications:

Ph.D in a related field and research experience involving synchrotron radiation, beamline-based experimentation, or related advanced characterization methods. Experience with one or more relevant techniques or systems, such as vacuum ultraviolet or soft X-ray methods, photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, beamline instrumentation, ultra-high-vacuum systems, or related experimental methods. Experience analyzing and interpreting complex scientific data. Record of scholarly research demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or comparable research products. Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively.

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.