Assistant Beamline Scientist / Beamline Scientist

The Structural Science group (SRS) within the X-ray Science Division (XSD) at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) facilitates world-leading research through the development of state-of-the-art instrumentation, advanced techniques, and collaborative research in physical, chemical, environmental, and materials sciences using high-energy X-rays. To fulfill its mission, the SRS group manages five independent beamlines operating across photon energies from 26 to 120 keV.

We are currently seeking a talented and motivated Beamline Scientist to join our team, supporting the operation, advancement, and scientific user programs at beamline 11-BM. Dedicated to high-resolution powder diffraction, beamline 11-BM operates within an energy range of 20-33 keV, utilizing a sagittally focused monochromator paired with multiple Si crystal analyzers to deliver exceptional resolution and sensitivity. This beamline supports specialized on-site user experiments addressing complex, non-routine diffraction challenges while also offering a mail-in service for streamlined, rapid-access measurements.

In this dynamic role, the successful candidate will collaborate within a diverse and highly skilled team, actively assisting users in experiments, optimizing beamline performance, and pioneering innovative techniques, sample environments, and cutting-edge data acquisition strategies that significantly expand the beamline’s scientific capabilities.

Position Requirements

• Requires a PhD in physics, chemistry, computer science, materials science and related disciplines

• At least 2 years of experience with independent scientific work after PhD

• Experience in conducting in situ and operando diffraction experiments

• Experience with Python and/or C/C++

• Knowledge of diffraction theory, crystallography, and approaches to advanced analysis including structural refinement and modeling

• Skill in oral and written communication of scientific results and experimental plans

• Ability to work well in a team environment

• Flexibility and fast adaptation to new situations

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

To complement our team, we are looking for one or more of the following qualifications:

• Instrumentation design including hands on realization

• Development of scripts for advanced data acquisition and analysis strategies

• Expertise in x-ray optics

• Experience with automation and robotics

• Experience in beamline controls using EPICS, SPEC or BlueSky

• Knowledge in materials science

• Knowledge in materials for energy storage and sustainability

This position can be hired at one of two levels; the selected candidate will be placed at the appropriate level (RD2 or RD3) dependent upon the depth and breadth of relevant knowledge and skills. The minimum requirements of the two levels are as follows:

• RD2 (Assistant Beamline Scientist): Bachelors and 5+ years’ experience, Masters and 3+ years’ experience, PhD and 0+ years’ experience, or equivalent. The expected pay range for this position is $90,063 - 143,010.

• RD3 (Beamline Scientist): Bachelors and 8+ years’ experience, Masters and 5+ years’ experience, PhD and 4+ years’ experience, or equivalent. The expected pay range for this position is $109,922 - 175,605.

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Physics 2

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $90,063.00 - $143,010.27.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. 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, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.