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Argonne National Laboratory

Assistant Chemist - Synthesis and Structural Chemistry: f-elements

Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, United States


The Heavy Element and Separation Science Group in the Chemical Sciences & Engineering Division of Argonne National Laboratory solicits applicants to fill an assistant chemist position in our Heavy Element Chemistry program. The HESS group’s research encompasses fundamental chemistry of the f-elements, synthesis, structure and spectroscopy, along with collaborative efforts in developing fundamental descriptions of chemical separations including structural chemistry in solutions, dynamics, and interfacial chemistry. The candidate for this position will be responsible for developing a research program in f-element inorganic synthesis and structural chemistry focused on the transuranium elements. Expertise, and creativity in inorganic synthesis of molecular complexes and compounds from aqueous solution, solid state synthesis, and expertise in the determination of their structural and chemical properties using single crystal X-ray diffraction as demonstrated by peer reviewed publications are requirements. Knowledge and experience with the use of complementary characterization methods including FT-IR, Raman, EPR spectroscopy, and magnetometry would be assets. Development of a research program that includes establishing a transuranium structural science program through the general user program at the APS at Argonne would be encouraged. The successful candidate will join a dynamic group with complementary expertise in inorganic and physical chemistry, separations sciences, interfacial chemistry, and condensed matter physics. The candidate will be provided with opportunities to and encouraged to collaborate with internal and external programs to advance and develop their research program. Responsible for working independently and as part of a team, developing experimental plans, performing experiments, analyzing data, safety documentation, and preparing funding applications. 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 Ph.D. with knowledge and expertise in chemistry or physics 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 and structural determination that includes single crystal x-ray diffraction Broad knowledge of f-element chemistry and demonstrated experience in the safe handling and manipulation of transuranium materials Excellent oral and written communication skills as defined by oral presentations at scientific meetings and publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals Demonstrated experience in one or more materials characterization techniques such as EPR, IR, Raman, optical spectroscopy, and magnetometry Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork RD 2: Bachelor’s and 5+ years of experience, or Master’s and 3+ years of experience, or Doctorate and 0+ years of experience or equivalent Job Family Research Development (RD) Job Profile Chemistry 2 Worker Type Regular Time Type Full time As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, Argonne encourages minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment. Argonne considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department. All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.