Group Leader, Neutron and X-Ray Scattering & Thermophysics

About the role

We are hiring a Senior Scientist and Group Leader to lead the Neutron & X-Ray Scattering Group in the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Research Leadership
  • Define and implement a cohesive research strategy that advances neutron and X-ray scattering science and aligns with laboratory priorities.
  • Lead and participate in high-quality research projects focused on the laboratory’s neutron sources and complementary X-ray capabilities.
  • Drive publication of results in top peer-reviewed journals and presentations at major conferences.
• Program Development and Funding
  • Identify and pursue funding opportunities; lead proposal development and manage sponsored projects.
  • Build partnerships with industry, academia, national labs, and government agencies to expand the group’s impact and resources.
• Team Building and Mentorship
  • Recruit, hire, and retain talented scientists and technical staff.
  • Mentor staff, postdoctoral fellows, and students; set clear performance expectations and support career development.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Operational Excellence and Compliance
  • Champion safety, security, and ethical research practices; ensure compliance with ORNL policies and ESH&Q standards.
  • Maintain clear internal and external communications about scientific activities and outcomes.
• Community Engagement
  • Represent NXSG and MSTD at scientific meetings and stakeholder briefings.
  • Translate technical results into actionable insights for sponsors and collaborators.

Basic Qualifications

• Requires a Ph.D. in material science and engineering, physics, or a related field with a minimum of 6 years’ relevant experience or a master’s degree with a minimum of 12 years of experience.
• Qualified candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading R&D teams.
• Demonstrated publication & presentation record.

Preferred Qualifications

• 10-year work history/experience in neutron and x-ray scattering.
• Scholarly Impact: Strong publication record and citation metrics that reflect scientific influence.
• Reputation: Recognized excellence in the field at national or international levels.
• Communication: Exceptional written and oral communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Initiative and Collaboration: Proven ability to lead independently and to contribute creatively within cross-disciplinary teams.
• Adaptability: Comfortable prioritizing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment and responding to evolving sponsor needs.

Special Requirements

• For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.
• 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.

Letters of Recommendation

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to psdrecruit@ornl.gov.

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!

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
• Education Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile

Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov View Profile Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

Contact Information

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov. ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.