Position Title:
Ames Laboratory Scientist I

Job Group:
Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:
Master’s degree and 3 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience in solid-state NMR spectroscopy methods and theory

Job Description:

Would you like to work for a National Laboratory that conducts world-renowned research? Would you enjoy working on a diverse, beautiful, university campus? Can you imagine yourself in a mid-sized location that regularly ranks as one of the U.S. Best Places to Live ? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should consider a career with Ames Laboratory!

Ames Laboratory is a U.S. Department of Energy federally contracted National Laboratory located in Ames, Iowa, on the campus of Iowa State University. We are dedicated to translating foundational science through applied research to create technological innovations. We create materials, inspire minds to solve problems, and address some of the most challenging issues facing our world today. We promote and believe in a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, civility, and shared ownership in support of the Laboratory's collective success. We offer an exceptional benefits package including:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance, Wellbeing program, Employee Assistance Program;
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit or defined contribution plans;
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans;
• Onsite childcare;
• Life insurance and long-term disability;
• Flexible Spending Accounts.

Ames National Laboratory is seeking a scientist to apply and develop solid-state NMR spectroscopy for the characterization of materials and heterogeneous catalysts. The position will be filled at Ames National Laboratory Scientist I level.

This position will be responsible for conducting solid-state NMR investigations of heterogeneous catalysts, by conventional as well as dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) enhanced solid-state NMR spectroscopy.  A significant portion of the work will involve solid-state NMR methods development for instance through the development of novel data analysis tools, pulse sequence development, and the advancement and application of emerging technologies including ultra-fast (100 kHz+) magic-angle-spinning, dynamic nuclear polarization, and ultrahigh magnetic fields. The main focus of the work will be geared towards gaining a dynamic understanding of the structures of heterogeneous catalyst surfaces through multidimensional NMR spectroscopy.

The candidate is expected to develop novel ideas and lines of inquiry both as a part of an existing research project as well as in the development of research proposals. In addition, the candidate is encouraged to develop these ideas into both collaborative and independent DOE-funded research proposals. Given the highly collaborative nature of the work carried out at Ames National Laboratory, the successful candidate must be able to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and collaborate with a team.

The laboratory is equipped with 9.4 and 14.1 T solid-state NMR spectrometers with MAS probes for rotor diameters ranging from 5 to 0.75 mm.  Aside from these instruments, the lab is also equipped with a 9.4 T Bruker MAS-DNP NMR spectrometer with both 3.2 and 1.3-mm MAS-DNP probes. The successful candidate will have access to synthesis facilities including a Schlenk line and a glovebox and will also be able to collaborate with other PIs in the Division of Chemical and Biological Sciences and the Division of Materials Sciences and Engineering for synthetic and additional characterization needs. High-performance computing facilities will also be made available, and the successful candidate will use density functional theory calculations to predict structures and NMR parameters when appropriate.

This position involves multiple tasks with the ability to prioritize various temporally interrelated tasks and complete them as efficiently as possible. Proficiency and knowledge of related competencies is important for success in this position. Incumbent must possess the ability to communicate and work effectively with a diverse set of staff including Principal Investigators, Staff Scientists, Postdoctoral Researchers, Graduate Students and Undergraduate Research Assistants. The ability to learn new skills related to the technologies integral to materials research is important for success in this position.

Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

January 16, 2024

Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period

Time Type:
Full time

Pay Grade:
PS810

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

3) List of Professional References
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State University is committed to fostering a workplace of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value. Our Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• This job may also be eligible for flexible work schedules and flexible workplace options that may include flexible working hours and a hybrid working environment.

Original Posting Date:
December 14, 2022

Posting Close Date:
December 20, 2022

Job Requisition Number:
R10559