The Heavy Elements Group in the Chemical Sciences & Engineering Division of Argonne National Laboratory solicits applicants to fill a postdoctoral position. The postdoctoral appointee will be responsible for the synthesis of new f-element molecules and complexes and the study of their structure and properties in both the solid and solution states.  Research in this underexplored area of the periodic table is aimed at discovering new structure-property relationships and exploring the periodic chemical properties of these elements to unite the rich and complex chemistry of the actinide and rare-earth elements with the remainder of the periodic system.

The candidate is responsible for the synthesis of new inorganic complexes and their characterization using a wide array of techniques including single crystal and powder X-ray diffraction, and synchrotron based X-ray spectroscopy and scattering methods, solid state and solution state spectroscopic methods.  A knowledge of other characterization methods including  FT-IR, Raman, NMR spectroscopy, and magnetometry would be an asset.  The successful candidate will join a dynamic group with complementary expertise in inorganic and physical chemistry, separations sciences, and condensed matter physics and will be provided with opportunities to participate and collaborate with cutting edge programs in machine learning and synchrotron studies. 

The applicant is expected to hold a Ph.D. with knowledge and expertise in chemistry or physics and is expected to possess excellent oral and written communication skills. The successful candidate will be responsible for working independently and as part of a team, developing experimental plans, performing experiments, analyzing data, and safety documentation.  Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for the preparation of manuscripts for open-literature, peer-reviewed publications and presentations at scientific meetings based on their research findings.

Position Requirements

• Demonstrated strong motivation toward creative basic research.  Specific expertise in one or more of the following: inorganic chemistry, aqueous solution chemistry, synthesis of molecules and materials using high-temperature and flux reactions, and structural determinations including x-ray diffraction

• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills as defined by oral presentations at scientific meetings and publications in peer-review, archival, and scientific journals

• Considerable experience and general knowledge in inorganic/physical chemistry

• Experience in one or more materials characterization techniques such as NMR, IR, Raman, optical spectroscopy, and magnetometry 

• This position requires a Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field with 0 to 3 years of experience or equivalent

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