Research Associate - Aqueous Battery

Position overview:

The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory has an opening for a postdoctoral Research Associate (RA) to use synchrotron-based X-ray tools at SSRL to characterize aqueous battery degradation for inexpensive, long duration grid-based energy storage. The work will study issues such as understanding and controlling metal anode deposition and stripping and mitigating corrosion on both anode and cathode. X-ray characterization tools will include X-ray microscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and X-ray scattering. When appropriate, characterization will be done in as close to standard operating conditions as possible. Also, if needed, the project will include the use of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS).

The project has a strong emphasis on collaborative research thus the RA will work closely with scientists from other divisions in SLAC, Stanford, and collaboration at institutions across North America. The postdoctoral RA will have opportunities to cross-train in electrochemistry with these collaborators. The RA will also have the opportunity to publish lead-author manuscripts and to build a career in energy storage technologies, X-ray science, or a future teaching career.

Note: The Research Associate role is a fixed term staff position. Appointment duration is 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding.

Applicants must provide evidence of either a recently completed PhD degree or confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Applicants should also include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae with a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application.

To be successful in this position you will bring:

• Some experience with in situ/operando electrochemical cell design for X-ray or neutron characterization (helpful but not required)
• PhD in physics, materials sciences, chemistry or related field, and demonstrated research experience in synchrotron-based X-ray or neutron science.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Broad scientific interests and willingness to learn new skills
• Some experience in electrochemistry (helpful but not required)
• Strong experimental, analytical and computation skills.
• Experience with synchrotron-based and/or neutron characterization.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population; good interpersonal skills are essential.

SLAC employee competencies:

• Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
• Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
• Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
• Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
• Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
• Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
• Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

Physical requirements and Working conditions:

• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of their job.
• SLAC is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory operated by Stanford University and based in Menlo Park, CA. Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work.

Work standards:

• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide,
• As an organization that receives federal funding, SLAC and Stanford University have a COVID-19 vaccination requirement that will apply to all university employees, including those working remotely in the United States and applicable subcontractors.
• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford/SLAC colleagues and clients and with external organizations.

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• Job code: 0127
• Classification Title: Research Associate - Experimental
• Employment Duration: 24 months

The expected pay range for this position is $70,000 to $100,000 per annum. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.