Section Head- Nanomaterial Synthesis & Nanofabrication

Requisition Id15890

Overview:

We are seeking an R&D Section Head for Nanomaterials Synthesis in the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS). The CNMS provides national and international user community access to expertise and equipment for a broad range of nanoscience research, including nanomaterials synthesis, nanofabrication, imaging/microscopy/characterization, and theory/modeling/simulation

The Nanomaterials Synthesis Section develops innovative methods to precisely synthesize, process, and characterize functional macromolecules, nanomaterials, and nanostructures to understand structure, property, and function in support of the user program and theme science. Selection will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and education.

1. Functional Hybrid Nanomaterials-Conducts controlled synthesis of functional nanostructures and thin films by CVD and PLD using real-time diagnostics, e.g., 2D layered materials, hybrid organic/inorganic films, carbon nanostructures, oxide thin films, and heterostructures.
2. Macromolecular Nanomaterials-Performs precise synthesis of functional polymers with special emphasis on selective deuteration, small molecule synthesis, and ionic polymerization, as well as macromolecular characterization.
3. Nanofabrication Research Laboratory-Develops methods to fabricate nanostructures using best-in-class lithographic, etching, thin-film deposition, and characterization tools.

As a Distinguished Research Staff Scientist and Section Head at the CNMS, your work will combine science with leadership. As a Section Head, you will be instrumental in shaping and implementing division strategies to deliver world-leading science along with a robust and impactful collaborative user program. Through your collaborations with fellow leaders, engagement across ORNL, and relationships with external partners you will simultaneously develop science as a Distinguished R&D Staff Member. This will include leading and conducting groundbreaking, scientific research in your own area of expertise as part of the CNMS theme science program as well as through external programs related to material synthesis and nanofabrication, particularly in the areas of understanding material defects and transformations as they relate to microelectronics, quantum materials, quantum information systems and autonomous synthesis in support of ORNL's "atoms to applications" strategic initiative.

As part of the CNMS leadership team, the R&D Section Head works closely with the Division Director and section Group Leaders to establish and implement the science and technology directions for the section; support the Group Leaders to ensure their success and the success of the R&D groups as world-recognized leaders in their fields; ensure that staff members understand business opportunities; identify links to current and future funding opportunities and R&D programs; develop and implement consistent processes for the peer-review of proposals consistent with lab standards; model proper Environment, Safety, Security, Health, and Quality practices; and ensure a diverse and inclusive work environment where every employee feels safe, heard and appreciated-a workplace that sets an example for the broader community.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Lead and champion internationally renowned, innovative science related to nanomaterial synthesis and nanofabrication.
• Be responsible for initiating, planning and managing major research programs and projects, specifically leading in the development of CNMS Theme Science and User Program development.
• Plan and lead new major research programs, developing new research proposals and establishing new user relationships.
• Developing international reputation for knowledge in specialty by establishing a track record of managing major research projects, pushing the edge of knowledge in your field, and leading through service to major societies and participation in advisory committees.
• Work closely with the CNMS Division Director and Group Leaders within the section to develop a vision and implement a strategy to pursue world-leading science and technology directions for the section.
• Support the CNMS Division Director in division operations and represent CNMS Director when the Director is not available.
• Serve as direct supervisor for section Group Leaders.
• Actively contribute to shaping the division's, directorate's, and laboratory's strategic vision, research plans, and investments.
• Build strong teams by collaborating across ORNL and securing external expertise when needed. Leverage ORNL facilities and resources when developing new projects.
• Work with your Group Leaders and CNMS Division Director to assess and calibrate individual staff performance across the section. Evaluate progress regularly, providing feedback and addressing performance issues in a timely manner.
• Ensure groups are recruiting and hiring from a diverse pool of top candidates who are committed to world-class research and aspire to be the best in their field. Approve job offers.
• Drive staff promotions and development.
• Address in a timely manner all concerns expressed by staff and any disciplinary actions.
• Lead by example, using the principles in ORNL's "Research Code of Conduct" as a guide for proposing, performing, and communicating research and in dealing with others.
• Employ best practices, such as holding regular meetings, being visible in the workplace, monitoring budgets, acknowledging sponsors, and adhering to ORNL business systems requirements regarding staff requests for foreign travel and submission of quality proposals.
• Coach and mentor staff regarding Battelle's "Safe Conduct of Research" principles and ensure all work is carried out safely, securely, and in compliance with ORNL policies, standards, and procedures.
• Exemplify a commitment to ORNL by modeling lab expectations for excellence in research, operations, and community engagement, and by working cooperatively to leverage capabilities across the lab.
• Connect staff to your network. Assist Group Leaders (and R&D staff when appropriate) in setting long-term career goals. Identify additional mentors as appropriate and engage senior staff to act in this capacity.
• Be open and transparent in communicating information to your groups and communicate staff achievements and changes to stakeholders in a timely manner.
• Work with Group Leaders to ensure staff are participating actively in professional service (engagement in scientific societies, workshop and conference organization, peer review, advisory board membership, etc.).
• Advocate for and support internal and external recognition of staff achievements. Ensure the Section's external professional presence is strong.
• Communicate funding/proposal opportunities to staff and support proposal development as appropriate (mentoring, proposal reviews, budget preparation, etc.).
• Ensure that staff manage their research projects effectively to deliver results on scope, schedule, and budget while meeting scientific, technical, and business expectations.
• Effectively communicate the importance of protecting proprietary or sensitive information and complying with ORNL cybersecurity policies and guidelines.
• Recognize and support the contributions and responsibilities of Group Leaders and Laboratory Space Managers to lab safety.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Basic Qualifications:

• Requires a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field, with a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience
• Qualified candidates should have 4 years of demonstrated experience in leading R&D teams

Preferred Qualifications:

• A demonstrated track record of research excellence in materials science, energy storage, chemistry, catalysis research, or strongly similar areas.
• Experience in leading teams of cross-disciplinary researchers to produce important discoveries beyond the reach of individual investigators.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.