Job Description

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The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource has an opening for a Research Associate with a strong background in powder diffraction and
structural characterization of materials to work on improving stability in metal halide perovskite solar cells. This role is part of a large collaborative
effort with researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and CubicPV. This position has a component (approximately 50%) focused
on research and another component (approximately 50%) focused on beamline support. The research component consists of structural
characterization of metal halide perovskite thin films and photovoltaic devices, including in-situ and operando measurements to study
degradation mechanisms. In addition to advanced characterization, this role will involve developing machine learning approaches to identify
structural descriptors which are closely tied to material stability which will guide development of more stable solar cell materials. The beamline
support component will be closely aligned with the research component of this role. This position will involve working with external user groups to
support their experiments at SSRL beamlines and moving advancements in x-ray methods and instrumentation from the focused research area
to the general user program.

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 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.

SLAC is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory operated by Stanford University and based in Menlo Park; CA. Due to COVID-
19-related curtailment of on-site activities, the job duties for this position may be required to be performed from home until full site
access is restored

To be successful in this position you will bring:

PhD in physics, materials sciences, chemistry or related field, and demonstrated research experience in synchrotron-based X-ray
science.
Very experienced with X-ray or neutron scattering with emphasis on powder diffraction and Rietveld refinement.
Strong experimental, analytical and computation skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population; good interpersonal skills are essential.
Ability to work well in a fast-paced research and development team.
Excellent organizational skills and the ability to synthesize complex technical and scientific information.

In addition, preferred requirements include:

Experience with metal halide perovskite or other solar cell materials.

Strong background in Python applied math libraries and algorithms, preferably NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib, and FabIO.
Advanced machine learning with experience in applying Bayesian Optimization.
Some experience with instrumentation design and development and computer-instrument interfacing is desirable, but not essential.
Broad scientific interests.

SLAC employee competencies:

Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
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.
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.
Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken,
presented messages.
Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

Physical requirements and Working conditions: