Postdoctoral Associate at CHESS
The Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS) at Cornell University is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral research candidate with a strong background in both materials physics and computation to join our Quantum Materials team. We seek candidates who are interested in developing cutting-edge tools for analysis of comprehensive single crystal / thin film scattering measurements, exploiting developments in artificial intelligence and machine learning. We also invite candidates with interests in beamline automation and autonomy.
The postdoctoral associate will be expected to work both collaboratively and independently on research projects, advancing computational methods using machine learning, developing automated pipelines for data analysis, adding new features or fixing bugs in existing software, and exploiting these tools to tackle frontier problems in materials physics.
Additionally, the postdoctoral associate will benefit from the unique infrastructure for quantum materials research at CHESS, including the QM2 beamline, and close collaboration with other on-campus resources, such as the AI Materials Institute and Cornell Center for Advanced Computing.
Essential Qualifications
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PhD in computer science, physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field is required by the start of the appointment
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Experience with programming languages like Python or C, and or developing and/or using computational methods for analyzing large datasets.
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Demonstrated experience in developing computational algorithms for solving problems, preferably with evidence (i.e., GitHub record)
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Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with technical experts, operations staff, facility users, and researchers at all levels
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Proficiency in science communications, written and oral, formal and informal
Additionally, experience with any of the following is an asset:
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Complex experimental instrumentation
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Machine learning and artificial intelligence
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Analysis of large and multidimensional datasets
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High Performance Computing (HPC)
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Low temperature physics
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High magnetic field physics
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Synchrotron and neutron facilities
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X-ray scattering
Compensation and Additional Information
The anticipated salary range for this position is $67,000-$70,000. The initial appointment term is one year. The appointment may be renewed based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. The position is based in Ithaca, New York.
How to Apply
For best consideration, applications should be submitted through our posting on Academic Jobs Online: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/32199
Only complete applications will be considered. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until the position is filled.
A complete application includes the following material:
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Cover Letter
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Curriculum Vitae
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List of Publications
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Research Statement, summarizing past work and future interests
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Three Letters of Recommendation
About Us
The Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS) is an advanced scientific facility, located on the central campus of Cornell University in New York State. CHESS is internationally recognized for providing high intensity X-ray beams and advanced instrumentation to scientists and students around the world. The lab is comprised of eight state-of-the-art beamlines, each of which routinely hosts world-leading research in physics, chemistry, biology, environmental sciences, materials science, cultural heritage, and engineering. CHESS is a world leader in innovation for complex sample environments including in situ heating and loading, accelera-tors, detectors, and x-ray optics and plays a key role in many medical discoveries and scientific breakthroughs, including research that received Nobel Prizes in Chemistry in 2003 and 2009.
Pay Range:
$62,232.00 - $88,745.00
Pay Ranges:
The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:
Prior relevant work or industry experience.
Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
Academic Discipline
Unique applicable skills.
Employment Assistance:
For general questions about the position or the application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or email [email protected].
If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at [email protected].
Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. You may also request an appointment to use a dedicated workstation in the Office of Talent Attraction and Recruitment, at the Ithaca campus, by emailing [email protected].
Notice to Applicants:
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2026-06-16
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