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Research Associate - Nonlinear Optical Spectroscopies of Quantum Materials

Brookhaven National Laboratory
parental leave, sick time, tuition assistance, 401(k)
United States, New York, Upton
20 Brookhaven Ave (Show on map)
Oct 02, 2025

Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to employee success and we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive. Review more information at BNL | Benefits Program

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

Our group is part of the vibrant Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science division with varied research groups studying both fundamental and applied properties of condensed matter, offering ample opportunity for collaboration. These include a broad condensed matter theory effort, materials growth of both bulk single-crystals and epitaxial thin films, and a variety of experimental probes of condensed matter systems that complement our own.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

We are seeking outstanding candidates for an experimental postdoctoral position to develop and perform ultrafast nonlinear spectroscopies of quantum materials, primarily so-called 'multi-dimensional spectroscopies' in the terahertz to optical frequency ranges. Studies of interest include strongly correlated electron systems, topological materials, and low-dimensional nanostructures, both in equilibrium and in light-induced non-equilibrium states. We also welcome new directions of interest to the candidate.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for setting up a multi-dimensional terahertz spectrometer, using ultrafast laser amplifiers as a light source.
  • Responsible for using a home-built multi-dimensional terahertz spectrometer and a commercial multi-dimensional optical spectrometer towards studying the properties of varied "quantum materials". This will involve coordinating experimental acquisition and subsequent analysis of data.
  • Responsible for disseminating research results in the form of conference presentations and writing of publications.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • PhD. in Physics or related discipline.
  • Demonstrated written and oral communication skills in English, be self-motivated and able to work both independently and as a part of a multi-institutional team.
  • Ability to interact effectively with a diverse group of scientists and technical staff.
  • Proven ability to disseminate research results.
  • A good understanding of light-matter interactions in condensed matter systems
  • Able to work closely and communicate effectively with colleagues focused on other experimental and theoretical techniques.
  • Demonstrated data analysis skills.
  • Extensive experience building free-space optical setups.
  • Extensive experience with ultrafast laser systems.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Demonstrated experience with mJ-class ultrafast laser amplifiers, using ultrafast optical parametric amplifiers, building ultrafast optical parametric amplifiers, cryogenic systems, and generating and using intense mid- and far-infrared light pulses.
  • Knowledge of nonlinear optical phenomena in condensed matter systems.
  • Experience in developing software to run ultrafast spectroscopy experiments.

BNL policy requires that after obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.

At Brookhaven National Laboratory we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive. Our benefits program includes, but is not limited to:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Care Plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Time-off and Leave Programs (vacation, holidays, sick leave, paid parental leave)
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
  • Tuition Assistance, Training and Professional Development Programs
  • Employee Fitness/Wellness & Recreation: Gym/Basketball Courts, Weight Room, Fitness Classes, Indoor Pool, Tennis Courts, Sports Clubs/Activities (Basketball, Ping Pong, Softball, Tennis)

Brookhaven National Laboratory requires all non-badged personnel including visitors to produce a REAL-ID or REAL-ID compliant documentation to access Brookhaven National Laboratory - view more information at www.bnl.gov/real-id. This is due to nationwide identification requirements for federal site access as required by the federal REAL ID Act. Those not in possession of a REAL ID-compliant document will not be permitted to access the site which includes access to the Laboratory for interviews.

About Us

Brookhaven National Laboratory (www.bnl.gov) delivers discovery science and transformative technology to power and secure the nation's future. Brookhaven Lab is a multidisciplinary laboratory with seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, 37 R&D 100 Awards, and more than 70 years of pioneering research. The Lab is primarily supported by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science. Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) operates and manages the Laboratory for DOE. BSA is a partnership between Battelle and The Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University. BSA salutes our veterans and active military members with careers that leverage the skills and unique experience they gained while serving our country, learn more at BNL | Opportunities for Veterans at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Brookhaven Science Associates is an equal opportunity employer that values inclusion and diversity at our Lab. We are committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a veteran, disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. BSA takes affirmative action in support of its policy and to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. *VEVRAA Federal Contractor

BSA employees are subject to restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Talent Recruitment Programs, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation at the time of hire for review by Brookhaven. The full text of the Order may be found at:https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0486.1-BOrder-a/@@images/file

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