OPEN POSITIONS
Research Scientist - Atom Probe Tomography
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Tennessee, United States
Position Description: Overview Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS) seeks a Research Staff Scientist specializing in Atom Probe Tomography (APT) to join the Electron Microscopy and MicroAnalysis (eMMA) Group.
This role will advance fundamental understanding of microstructure–property relationships in materials while developing new collaborations with CNMS users and research teams across ORNL. You will lead CNMS’s APT research program and oversee state-of-the-art facilities, including a Cameca LEAP 6000XR and two dedicated focused ion beam (FIB) systems (Ga+ FIB and cryo-PFIB). These tools enable cutting-edge investigations of both traditional alloys and non-metallic systems such as liquid–solid interfaces, catalysts, soft matter, semiconductors, and oxide heterostructures.
Research responsibilities include characterizing microstructures (phases, distributions, precipitate fractions, composition profiles) and linking them to mechanical and oxidation behavior during processing and environmental exposure. You will expand the reach of APT to unconventional materials, publish impactful results, and represent ORNL science at conferences and workshops.
Major Duties/Responsibilities: Lead APT research and manage laboratory operations (LEAP and FIBs). Conduct APT experiments for the CNMS user program and pursue independent research to advance the technique. Perform microstructural characterization of diverse materials and apply new FIB methods to broaden APT applications. Develop collaborations and establish research programs integrating APT across ORNL. Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific meetings. Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality standards. Uphold ORNL’s values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service, and foster a respectful, inclusive workplace.
Basic Qualifications: PhD in materials science, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in APT.
Preferred Qualifications: Strong record of research productivity demonstrated by publications and/or presentations. Proficiency in APT data acquisition and analysis (IVAS). Hands-on FIB sample preparation experience (Ga+ or cryo). Coding and data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar). Familiarity with TEM/STEM and exposure to X-ray or neutron scattering. Excellent written/oral communication skills and ability to thrive in collaborative, fast-paced environment.
For more information click here. To apply, email Kate Carter.
Application Expiration Date: 9/26/2025 12:00:00 AM
PostDoc f/m/d – Investigation of the interfacial material growth of bioceramics using atom probe tomography (APT)
Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials
Position overview:
The project will provide a foundational step toward a new class of ceramic architectures capable of expansion and remodeling for the fabrication of sustainable ceramic materials and devices and introduce approaches that can reduce fabrication energy consumption and minimize ceramic waste.
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher for the SuCeram "Sustainable Remodeling of Ceramics: Lessons from Growing Interfaces of Echinoderms" project within the Max Planck Network on Sustainable Materials (SusMax). We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to expand the frontiers of biomineral research using atom probe tomography (APT). The applicant will investigate the interfacial processes responsible for the formation of bioceramics using MPI-SusMat's state-of-the-art cryo-APT facilities.
Start date October 1 2025.
For full position description, and to apply, click here.
Nuclear Materials Characterization Scientist specializing in Electron Microscopy
Idaho National Laboratory, Advanced Materials Characterization Department.
Idaho, USA
This position will focus on the advanced characterization of materials for a variety of materials development programs at INL, contributing to cutting-edge research that supports our mission of advancing nuclear energy technologies.
Minimum Requirement:
• Level 2: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field with a strong emphasis on materials characterization and 0 years' experience.
• Level 3: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field with a strong emphasis on materials characterization and 2 years' experience.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.
Link for the job posting
PhD Candidate (m/f/d)
Universität Freiburg
Germany
Closing date: August 31 2025
“Digital methods for data-driven inverse materials design by optimizing composition process-structure-property relationships for aluminum alloys based on semantic data management technologies, physic-based modelling, and correlative microscopy”
Position: E13, 75%
Duration: 3 years (possibility for 1-year extension)
Starting date: as soon as possible
Place: University of Freiburg, Chair “Cross-scale Material Characterization”
More information, or to apply, click here.
Post-doc
Innovative approaches for the formation of the CoSi2 silicide as contacts in advanced 65 nm technologies
IM2NP
Marseille, France
STMicroelectronics, at its Crolles and Rousset sites, is developing advanced RF technologies essential for future mobile networks and the internet. These new microelectronic devices are produced using a 65 nm technological node on 200 mm wafers, which refers to the gate size of CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) transistors. To adapt these advanced radiofrequency microelectronic devices for 200 mm factories, a new generation of cobalt silicide is required to connect them with their environments. In the semiconductor industry, cobalt disilicide (CoSi2) is generally not used for 65 nm technological nodes because it cannot form in small dimensions. This limitation is mainly due to the difficulty of CoSi2 nucleation in CMOS devices. The collaboration between STMicroelectronics and IM2NP aims to propose innovative approaches to demonstrate the feasibility of integrating high-performance cobalt silicide for 65 nm industrial processes in 200 mm factories. Over two postdoctoral years, studies will focus on the influence of pre-amorphization processes on the resistivity, texture, and grain size of Co silicide; the impact of
alloying elements like Ni on the properties of Co silicide; and the benefits of disruptive approaches such as intermediate layers deposited between Co and Si, as well as new annealing techniques. Special attention will be given to systematic studies of grain size, texture, and composition of the silicide using advanced techniques such as XRD, SEM/EBSD/TKD, TEM/ASTAR, and atom probe tomography (APT), along with their phase sequences (in-situ XRD, in-situ Rs). Modeling and simulation will also be employed to understand the mechanisms of silicide formation, including nucleation, growth, and diffusion.
The postdoctoral research will be conducted at the IM2NP laboratory in Marseille, which offers a wide range of characterization equipment, including atom probe tomography (APT, LEAP6000), scanning (SEM/EBSD/TKD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray characterization, and resistivity measurements. Samples will be prepared at STMicroelectronics Crolles and Rousset sites or at IM2NP, where the postdoctoral researcher will utilize vacuum deposition, annealing, and various characterization techniques. The collaboration between STMicroelectronics and IM2NP on silicides is well-established, with several PhD students (CIFRE) contributing to numerous publications and conference presentations. A candidate with experience in FIB preparation, TEM and/or APT would be highly valued.
More information, or to apply, email Dominque Mangelinck here.
Post-doc
Idaho National Laboratory
Idaho, USA
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) Postdoctoral Research Associate - (22759)
Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in our Advanced Materials Characterization Department. Our team works a 9X80 schedule located out of our Microscopy and Characterization Suite (MaCS) facility with every other Friday off.
MaCS is a state-of-the-art materials characterization laboratory that provides cross-cutting capabilities that support the broader INL mission. You will focus on the TEM characterization of materials for a variety of materials development programs at INL. Contributing to cutting-edge research that supports our mission of advancing energy technologies.
Key Responsibilities:
Conduct advanced TEM analysis on a variety of materials, including but not limited to nuclear fuels, structural materials, and advanced alloys.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to interpret data and correlate it with other characterization methods and material properties.
Prepare detailed reports and presentations of research findings for internal stakeholders and external publication.
Maintain and ensure the proper functioning of TEM equipment and related tools.
Mentor and assist graduate students and other team members in TEM-related projects.
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Atom Probe Tomography (APT) Postdoctoral Research Associate - (22760)
Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Atom Probe Tomography (APT) Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in our Advanced Materials Characterization Department. Our team works a 9X80 schedule located out of our Microscopy and Characterization Suite (MaCS) facility with every other Friday off.
MaCS is a state-of-the-art materials characterization laboratory that provides cross-cutting capabilities that support the broader INL mission. You will focus on the TEM and APT characterization of materials for a variety of materials development programs at INL. Contributing to cutting-edge research that supports our mission of advancing energy technologies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct advanced TEM and APT analysis on a variety of materials, including but not limited to nuclear fuels, structural materials, and advanced alloys.
- Integrate TEM and APT data to provide comprehensive insights into microstructures, defects, and phase transformations.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to interpret TEM and APT data and correlate it with other characterization methods and material properties.
- Prepare detailed reports and presentations of research findings for internal stakeholders and external publication.
- Maintain and ensure the proper functioning of TEM and APT equipment and related tools.
- Mentor and assist graduate students and other team members in TEM and APT-related projects.
Interested in either of these positions? Email Dr. Mukesh Bachhav here.
APT Engineer – Applied Materials, Inc
California
Are you passionate about advanced semiconductor analysis and eager to work in a fast-paced environment? Applied Materials is looking for APT Engineers to join our Metrology Group. This role offers the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art Atom Probe Tomography (APT) technology and contribute to cutting-edge research in materials characterization.
Key Responsibilities:
• Perform chemical analysis of advanced semiconductor materials using APT.
• Work with Focused Ion Beam (FIB) and APT tools for sample preparation and data collection.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to analyze results and optimize methodologies.
• Document findings and communicate results effectively in written reports and presentations.
• Adapt to a dynamic work environment, ensuring high-quality data and efficient workflow.
Qualifications:
• Master’s degree or higher in Materials Science, Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• 1+ years of hands-on experience with APT and FIB (academic or industry).
• Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Flexibility with work schedules (e.g., Tuesday–Saturday shift or mid-day shifts starting at 1 PM).
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a passion for problem-solving.
Why Join Us?
• Be part of a high-impact team pushing the boundaries of semiconductor analysis.
• Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge metrology tools.
• Work in a collaborative and fast-paced research environment.
If you are interested, please send your resume to Jia Liu here.
PhD Position
imec and University of Leuven, Belgium
At imec, we are in the unique position to develop metrology and materials characterization solutions for the future generation semiconductor technologies. Often overlooked, this is a crucial component in achieving the ambitious goals depicted on our roadmap [https://www.imec-int.com/en/articles/20-year-roadmap-tearing-down-walls]. Atom Probe Tomography (APT) is an exciting 3-dimensional materials characterization technique that has recently appeared on the semiconductor landscape. However, when being applied to semiconductor devices, APT is still a very novel characterization method, with many opportunities for impactful research and development aspects around the underlying physical mechanisms, automation approaches, 3D data reconstruction protocols, statistical data analysis schemes and many more. In this project, you will tackle the challenge of mechanical failure of samples during Atom Probe analysis. For APT, samples are prepared into a needle with an endpoint radius of less than 50 nm. During APT data acquisition, this needle is being held at cryogenic temperatures while being exposed to a standing voltage of ~10 kV coupled with ultra-short (ps) laser pulses at ~200kHz frequency. These conditions induce cyclic mechanical and thermal stresses, which in some material systems lead to premature fracture of the needle before any data can be recorded. You shall identify the root-causes for these failures and propose innovative solutions to mitigate them for a well-defined set of material systems. This work will benefit from a strong multidisciplinary and out-of-the-box mindset, as it touches on aspects of high-field physics, material science, mechanical properties of materials, interface physics, etc. You will have access to state-of-the-art APT equipment (LEAP 5000 XR, INVIZO 6000), as well as complementary characterization techniques such as TEM and SEM. Moreover, material systems of varying complexity will enable you to study experimentally the relationship between material properties, sample preparation strategies, experimental conditions and failure mechanisms. You will be able to draw on the extensive expertise available at imec and KU Leuven in the fields of e.g. materials characterization and science, and mechanical testing. Depending on your interests, this project could be complemented with multi-physics simulations. Ultimately, the outcome of this project will allow to better leverage the strength of APT for the semiconductor industry.
For more information, or to apply, click here.
Postdoctoral Research Position in Additive Manufacturing of Aluminum Alloys
Seidman Group, Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University
The Seidman Group at Northwestern University is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our cutting-edge research in additive manufacturing (AM) of aluminum alloys. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of materials science and advanced manufacturing, focusing on the next generation of lightweight materials.
Position Overview:
The successful candidate will work intimately with our research scientists to conduct experimental and computational research aimed at understanding and optimizing our newly developed heat-resistant aluminum alloys for AM. This research will involve collaborations with interdisciplinary teams, and access to state-of-the-art equipment including atom-probe tomography (APT), electron microscopes, and other advanced characterization tools.
Key Responsibilities:
- This is a collaborative research effort. Hence, the candidate is required to work on a daily basis with the team members/mentors to design and perform experiments related to AM of Al alloys.
- Utilize advanced characterization techniques (e.g., APT, TEM, EBSD, SEM, XRD) to study the micro-/nano-structures and properties of printed alloys.
- Collaborate with team members to integrate computational simulations and modeling into experimental workflows.
- Prepare reports, present research findings at conferences, and publish in high-impact journals collaboratively.
Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Metallurgy, or a related field
Must be able to work congenially and collegially with other group members
- Strong background in physical metallurgy
- Expertise in nanostructural characterization, corrosion, and mechanical testing
- A proven track record of publications and completed research projects
- Experience in metal-based AM processes is a plus.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
Why Join Us?
- Be part of an internationally recognized group pioneering advancements in materials science and atom-probe tomography
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities at Northwestern University
- Collaborate with experts in the field and contribute to impactful research
- Work in the vibrant academic and research environment of Evanston, just outside Chicago
Application Instructions:
Interested candidates should submit the following materials:
1. A current CV, including a list of publications and qualifications. Please include a concise unembellished CV highlighting your major contributions and proven expertise.
2. Contact information for three academic references
3. Research statement (1-2 pages) that outlines your research achievements (Optional)
For more information or to apply, please email:
Professor David N. Seidman
Research Assistant Professor Amir R. Farkoosh
Materials Science and Engineering Department,
Northwestern University Center for Atom-Probe Tomography, NUCAPT
Northwestern University
2220 Campus Drive,
Evanston, IL 60208
United States
Postdoctoral Researcher in Atom Probe Tomography (APT)
EMPA
Tun, Switzerland
We are offering a postdoctoral position in the Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures at Empa in Thun, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, a research institution of the ETH Domain.
The Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures explores novel thin film deposition strategies for interface engineering and probes the mechanical properties of small scale structures and interfaces. We are looking for a postdoc motivated to contribute to the understanding of inter-faces via atom probe tomography (APT). The newly installed instrument will be used to characterize interfaces in thin films to shed light on how their chemical make-up impacts stability, adhesive and strengthening mechanisms. As part of internal collaborations, the researcher is responsible for the execution, analysis and interpretation of APT measurements. Upon mutual interest the responsibilities will be extended to the development of alternative preparation methods for APT tips and analysis of other engineering materials.
Your tasks:
- Assist with the start-up of the newly installed APT machine (type EIKOS)
- Develop protocols for sample preparation and measurement of thin film samples
- Plan and conduct atom probe tomography experiments on interfaces in thin films and interpreta-tion of results
- Publish high-quality scientific publications as well as work in close collaboration with industrial and academic partners from Europe
- Supervision of undergraduate and PhD students
- Contribution to proposal writing
Qualifications:
You must hold a PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or similar. A high level of motivation to work in an international, multidisciplinary research team and in close collaboration with industry is essential. A background in atom probe tomography is required. Addi-tional experience in thin film deposition (magnetron sputtering, atomic layer deposition) and ex-perimental interface mechanics and characterization is desirable.
Our Offer:
We offer an international, highly stimulating research environment with excellent infrastructure for personal and professional development. The laboratory is equipped with state of the art equipment including a complete cleanroom processing line for lithography, state of the art thin film deposition facilities, high level of materials analysis facilities including APT, and in situ micromechanical instru-mentation. You will be working at Empa in Thun (near Bern). The city is situated in a beautiful area near the mountains in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. The starting date is as soon as possible or upon mutual agreement. The project duration is 1 year.
Contact: Barbara Putz or Johann Michler
Postdoctoral Researcher in Atom Probe Tomography (APT)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Karlsruhe, Germany
KIT is offering a postdoctoral position in the APT group of the Institute for Applied Materials - Materials Science (IAM-WK) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). The group’s research is based on two major pillars. As part of the Physical Metallurgy group (PhM), KTI's focus is on materials for extreme application conditions. With projects through the KIT user facility KNMFi, this focus is complemented by materials research with different international collaborators.
The position mainly involves work on a project between KIT and TU Bergakademie Freiberg. Its aim is the development of novel refractory metal-ceramic-based composites, including synthesis, thermodynamic modelling, and characterization. A second task will be the handling of APT projects with the KNMFi collaboration partners. The close cooperation with PhM and the Institute of Nanotechnology (INT) offers possibilities to expand your expertise towards the respective research fields. At INT, the research landscape allows for collaboration with colleagues using different high-end characterization techniques, such as transmission electron microscopy and various spectroscopic techniques.
Qualifications:
- PhD in materials science and engineering or physics
- A background in APT or other mass spectrometry-based techniques
Salary: Salary category EG 13 TV-L
Starting date: October 1st, 2024 Contract duration: 24 months
Contact:Michael Eusterholz at KIT for more information.
An official job advertisement will be published on the KIT website soon.
Open PhD student position with GPM, MNHN and CAMECA Genevilliers labs.
Programme De Recherche
Objectives:
Recent technological advances in APT make it possible to detect volatiles such hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon and noble gases at trace levels in virtually all types of materials down to the nanometer scale. However, APT specimens need to be prepared as sharp needle tips, with an end diameter smaller than 100 nm. Preparation by focused ion beam (FIB) techniques may affect the stability of these elements in crystal structures because of beam damages and moderate temperature increases. In addition, due to the transience of volatiles, the air transfer of final specimen between FIB and APT instruments may also reduce their amount prior to analysis. As a result, representativity of APT data may be questioned. Over the past decade, advanced cryogenic fabrication methods in FIBs, and related vacuum transfer to final analysis chambers have emerged. They clearly offer the best solution to overcome the previous issues for volatile containing APT specimen preparation. Solutions are now commercially available, and can be fitted to commercial APT instruments.
The first aim of this PhD thesis is to contribute actively to the design, and implementation of such a cryo-transfer system to the COSMO-SAT instrument. The second aim of this thesis will consist in the commissioning of the new system. The main objective here will be to identify and analyze a series of relevant standards. A special emphasis will be put on the quantitative measurements of H and NG contents in known terrestrial and extraterrestrial samples through intercalibration with secondary ion mass spectrometry, infrared and Raman spectroscopies and noble gas mass spectrometry available in academic laboratories in France. By the end of this PhD, analysis of rare and precious extraterrestrial samples should be amenable and, in this context, the PhD student will be involved in the first quantitative APT studies providing decisive constraints on the astrophysical processes presiding to the accommodation of hydrogen and noble gases in minerals.
More information here, or by email with Frederic Danoix or Matthieu Roskosz.
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