Research Scientist – Neutron and X-ray Scattering
PhD-level R&D / Research roles on Crosslinked list a median of $134k (162 that show pay).
Lead an independent neutron scattering research program on energy and quantum materials, publish, and mentor junior researchers.
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Worth knowing
Why it is interesting. Build and lead your own research program with access to national-lab neutron and X-ray scattering capabilities
Might not be for you. Focused on condensed matter physics and hard materials, with no polymer content; requires mid-career experience
Heads-up: Cover letter required
Core polymer role:Materials Science Division; neutron scattering to understand atomic and magnetic correlations in energy and quantum materials; PhD in physics, materials science, chemistry
H-1B filings
Argonne National Laboratory filed 67 H-1B labor applications for scientist and engineer roles from Jan to Dec 2025.
Most common titles: Postdoctoral Appointee, Materials Scientist, Computational Scientist. Median filed pay: $77K a year.
From U.S. Department of Labor disclosure data. A filing is a record of past hiring, not a promise about this role, so confirm sponsorship with the employer. Titles and filed pay · Every employer's filings
- Seniority
- Senior
- Work
- On-site
- Type
- Full-time
- Degree
- PhD
- Experience
- 4+ yrs
- Industry
- Energy
- Role
- R&D / Research
Role details
The Neutron and X-ray Scattering (NXRS) Group within the Materials Science Division at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a Research Scientist position focused on experimental condensed matter research using advanced neutron scattering techniques. The NXRS Group is a collaborative research and development team that investigates the properties of materials through neutron and X-ray scattering, complemented by other experimental approaches and advanced data-analysis methods.
Our research advances the development and application of experimental and analytical tools to understand how local defects, short-range correlations, and fluctuations are inherently dynamic (correlations can be static or dynamic) influence material behavior. Current areas of interest include ionic conductors, quantum and strongly correlated electron materials, frustrated magnetic systems, and other energy-relevant materials. We are seeking a highly motivated, mid-career scientist to lead innovative research projects and advance the development and application of neutron scattering methods.
The successful candidate will combine neutron scattering with complementary experimental techniques to develop a fundamental understanding of atomic and magnetic correlations, fluctuations, and their impact on the properties of energy and quantum materials. This position offers an opportunity to establish and lead an independent research program while collaborating closely with colleagues in the NXRS Group, the Materials Science Division, and the broader Argonne community.
The successful candidate will be expected to develop new research directions, publish high-impact results in leading scientific journals, contribute to proposal development, and mentor postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and visiting scientists.
Position Requirements Ph.D. in physics, materials science, chemistry, or a closely related discipline Relevant research experience in academia, industry, or a national laboratory setting Extensive expertise in the development and application of innovative neutron scattering methods for condensed matter research Demonstrated ability to lead and manage research projects Strong background in condensed matter physics and/or materials science Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills Ability to collaborate effectively with individuals at all levels, both within and outside the laboratory Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork Application Materials A cover letter describing how their experience and expertise would contribute to success in this role A detailed curriculum vitae, including: a list of publications the names and addresses of three professional references A 2-page statement of proposed research RD3: Bachelors and 8+ years of experience, Masters and 5+ years, PhD and 4+ years, or equivalent The expected hiring range for this position is $116,250 - $181,350 annually RD4: Bachelors and 12+ years of experience, Masters and 7+ years, PhD and 6+ years, or equivalent The expected hiring range for this position is $ 138,000 - $215,280 annually Job Family Research Development (RD) Job Profile Physics 3 Worker Type Regular Time Type Full time The expected hiring range for this position is $116,250.00 - $181,350.00.
Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package. Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!
As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any 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.
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