Research Associate - Operando Xas Catalysis

Position Overview:

The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL), a Directorate of SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, and a national user facility, seeks a Research Associate with strong background in the operando characterization of catalysts using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). The successful candidate will work collaboratively with user groups throughout the United States and abroad, primarily providing guidance on XAS data analysis and modeling of EXAFS data. Success of these tasks will require the candidate to assist in designing and planning experiments, beamtime scheduling, training users, and collecting quality XAS data. The candidate will also be expected to develop methodology for performing state-of-the-art in-situ catalyst characterization, supervise and maintain the catalysis laboratory at SSRL, and work collaboratively with the diverse workforce at SLAC, external collaborators, and SSRL users.

Note: This is a 2-year fixed term appointment with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding. Research Associates at SLAC are fixed term academic appointments. Research Associates are engaged with the design, support, operation and/or scientific exploitation of the major programs of the laboratory, under the guidance of their faculty or Senior Scientific Staff / Distinguished Staff Scientist supervisor. They are expected to work with a high degree of independence on one or more specific tasks in support of the research program, frequently interacting with the laboratory’s scientific community.

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 statement of research area including brief summary of accomplishments, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application to Simon R Bare, email: mailto:[email protected].

To be successful in this position you will bring:

• Willingness to learn and bridge knowledge/experience gaps.
• Experience with all aspects of synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy is a must, including demonstrated ability in data analysis and modeling of EXAFS data using Athena/Artemis.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• A solid background in materials/catalyst characterization.
• Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, materials sciences, chemical engineering, or related fields.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population; good interpersonal skills are essential.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

SLAC employee competencies:

• Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
• 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.
• 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.
• Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
• Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.

Physical requirements and Working conditions:

• 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.
• 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 his or her job.

Work standards:

• 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.
• 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,
• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.

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• Employment Duration: Fixed term – 2 years
• Classification Title: Research Assoc-Experimental
• Grade: G Job code: 0127

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.