The Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM) at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, IL, has an immediate opening for a Postdoctoral Appointee to conduct research on the ferroelectric domain dynamics in hafnium zirconium oxide (HZO) using in situ time-resolved 4D Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (4D STEM). The successful candidate will investigate the nanoscale evolution of ferroelectric domains and their dynamics under external stimuli, such as electric fields, while utilizing state-of-the-art 4D STEM techniques to achieve high spatiotemporal resolution. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic team working with scientists performing cutting-edge research in materials characterization, with access to advanced electron microscopy and nanofabrication facilities at CNM. The primary responsibility will be to develop and implement experimental methodologies that leverage time-resolved 4D STEM to capture and analyze domain dynamics in ferroelectric HZO. The candidate will explore the role of domain configurations and switching behavior on the functional properties of ferroelectric materials for potential applications in memory devices, sensors, and actuators. This work will involve close collaboration with other experts at CNM and across multiple divisions at Argonne National Laboratory, offering ample opportunities for interdisciplinary research.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute experimental programs that utilize time-resolved 4D STEM for studying the dynamics of ferroelectric domains in hafnium zirconium oxide.

• Investigate the influence of external stimuli, such as electric fields, on domain switching behavior and ferroelectric phase transitions.

• Analyze and interpret data to uncover the fundamental mechanisms governing ferroelectricity at the nanoscale.

• Collaborate with team members across CNM and Argonne to apply these findings to novel device concepts.

• Disseminate research findings through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at professional conferences, symposia, and seminars.

• Stay up to date with the latest developments in ferroelectric materials research, in situ electron microscopy, and 4D STEM techniques. Position

Details: Postdoctoral appointments are on a one-year basis, renewable for up to three years contingent upon performance evaluation. Reviews of applications will begin immediately until the position is filled.

Position Requirements

• A recent Ph.D. (within the last 5 years or the upcoming year) in materials science, physics, or a related field.

• Expertise in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and 4D STEM techniques for characterizing nanoscale materials.

• Experience within situ electron microscopy and time-resolved experiments is highly desirable.

• Skills in data analysis, evaluation, and interpretation related to high-resolution microscopy.

• Familiarity with nanofabrication techniques is a plus.

• Effective oral and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals.

• Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in scientific research.

• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.

Job Family

Postdoctoral Family

Job Profile

Postdoctoral Appointee

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

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