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Assistant Scientist (RD2)/ Scientist (RD3) – Coherent X-ray Scattering of Geochemical Interfaces

Argonne National Laboratory · Lemont, IL · $94,486–$147,399 a year · Full time

Posted Jul 17, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about complex data you analyzed where the interpretation was not obvious. How did you reach a conclusion?

What they are checking: Whether they handle ambiguous data carefully and test alternative explanations.

Describe the publication you are most proud of and your specific role in it.

What they are checking: Whether they can communicate findings through peer-reviewed work and own their contribution.

What would you do

How would you work with geochemists, physicists and chemists who each describe the same interface differently?

What they are checking: Whether they can thrive in the multidisciplinary environment the posting emphasizes.

Your beamtime is cut short by an outage. How do you decide what to measure in the time you have left?

What they are checking: Whether they prioritize well under pressure and protect the key measurement.

Where do you see your research going in five years, and what new direction might it open for the division?

What they are checking: Whether they can help shape new directions in interfacial science, as the role asks.

About the work

What molecular-scale question about mineral-water interfaces would you most want to answer with coherent x-ray scattering?

What they are checking: Whether they bring a focused scientific question that justifies the technique, not just interest in the method.

How would you design a sample cell to study a mineral surface in water at a synchrotron without the cell ruining the measurement?

What they are checking: Whether they can build novel experimental apparatus that balances realistic chemistry with good x-ray data.

Explain how x-ray reflectivity or crystal truncation rods reveal the structure of an interface.

What they are checking: Whether they understand the interfacial scattering methods that coherent techniques build on.

What new possibilities does coherence open up for watching dynamic processes like dissolution or ion adsorption?

What they are checking: Whether they see how coherent methods can capture changes in real time that averaged methods miss.

How do you deal with beam-induced changes when x-rays interact with water and mineral surfaces?

What they are checking: Whether they recognize radiolysis and beam damage as real threats to valid results.

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The full job description

As published by Argonne National Laboratory.

The Chemical Sciences and Engineering (CSE) Division at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications from talented and motivated candidates with backgrounds in Physics, Materials Science, Interfacial Chemistry, or Geochemistry. We are seeking an early-career researcher who is excited to advance the understanding of molecular-scale processes governing geochemical reactivity at mineral–water interfaces through the application, use, and development of coherent X-ray scattering techniques. The position will be filled at either the Assistant Scientist or Scientist level, commensurate with the successful candidate’s experience and qualifications. In this role, you will lead and contribute to innovative experimental research using high-brilliance synchrotron radiation. You will design and develop novel experimental apparatus and conceptual approaches, analyze and interpret complex data, and communicate findings through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at scientific conferences. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment and help shape new directions in interfacial and geochemical science. Position Requirements • Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, Interfacial Chemistry, Geochemistry or equivalent in the scientific application of this knowledge and practical laboratory experience • Strong knowledge of coherent X-ray scattering and its scientific applications • Strong background in interfacial science or materials science, including relevant experimental methods • Experience with synchrotron-based X-ray scattering techniques for in situ and operando studies • Proficiency in programming and data analysis algorithms for experimental interpretation • Expertise in wet chemistry, including experimental design and the synthesis of nanophase minerals • Demonstrated ability to conceive, perform, and evaluate innovative research involving operando observations • Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment • Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team • A strong record of publications and growing recognition in relevant research areas • Skill in the use and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation and in technical communication • Ability to help guide and supervise the work of students and graduate researchers • Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork Additional Information This position may require travel to out-of-state synchrotron facilities, as needed to support research activities. If you are passionate about advancing cutting-edge science in a collaborative national laboratory environment, we encourage you to apply and join us at Argonne. RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years of experience, Masters and 3+ years, or PhD and 0+ years, or equivalent The expected hiring range for this position is $94,486 - $147,399 annually 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 Job Family Research Development (RD) Job Profile Chemistry 2 Worker Type Regular Time Type Full time The expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94. 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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