Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Applied Superconductivity Center (OPS)

Job ID: 61982

Location: Tallahassee

Application Deadline: April 21, 2026

Responsibilities

The Applied Superconductivity Center at Florida State University (FSU) and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (National MagLab) invite applications for a post-doctoral research associate position to perform nanostructural characterization using a variety of electron microscopy techniques. The position will focus on improving our understanding of the micro-, meso-, nano- and atomic-scale structural origins of the superconducting properties of high field superconductor tapes, wires, thin film and bulks with the aid of our advanced electron microscopes. Available equipment includes an aberration-corrected atomic resolution (scanning) transmission electron microscope (S/TEM), a focused ion beam (FIB) equipped FESEM and supporting sample preparation tools. The successful candidate would be a microscopist who focuses on materials science and problem solving. This position requires expertise in a TEM/STEM operation and FIB nano-fabrication so that the applicant can quickly begin actively participating in research. The successful applicant will become a member of a highly interactive and collaborative group that has along tradition of helping post-docs build a successful career in scientific research. The post doc will also be part of the strong post doc program at the MagLab.

Qualifications

Ph.D. in materials science, physics, engineering, chemistry, or related field completed within the last three years

• Extensive prior experience in TEM/STEM operation and making TEM samples
• Extensive prior experience preparing TEM specimens using FIB
• Effective written and verbal communication skills as evinced by publications, presentations, cover letter, and references

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating Cs-corrected STEMs
• Experience in EELS or EDS in STEM

Other Information

Application package we request:

• CV (Please list names and contact information of 2 possible references)
• Cover letter addressing the qualifications outlined above.
• One notable published paper or pre-print (co-)authored by the candidate (.pdf format)

Application package can be sent to:/

Fumitake Kametani

Where You Will Work

The candidate will be working as a full member of the Applied Superconductivity Center (ASC) located in Tallahassee FL. As a part of National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (National MagLab), we are a SO-person center dedicated to understanding and advancing superconducting materials for superconducting magnet and RF applications. At present there are 13 graduate students, 3 postdocs and 23 scientific and support staff. 10-15 undergraduates also participate in research at the ASC in any given semester. ASC has multiple research programs and collaborators from all over the world. We offer students and postdocs the opportunity to work in a very interdisciplinary and interactive environment that has a track record of impactful scientific discoveries.

Major microscope-related instruments at FSU and National MagLab

• JEOL ARM200cF Cs-corrected S/TEM with Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) and Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and now the MerlinEM 40 STEM detector from Quantum Detectors Inc is being installed.
• FEI Helios G4 UC field emission scanning electron microscope and FIB equipped with Gas Injection System (GIS), in-situ lift-out tool and Leica cold stage, EBSD and EDS
• JEOL IT-710HR Field emission SEM with EDS
• Gatan PIPS ion mill
• Micro Support Axis Pro SS ex-situ lift-out tool
• JEOL IB-19500 CP ion cross section polisher

Contact Info

For additional information, please contact Kayla West at Fumitake Kametani.

University Information

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow's news!

Learn more about our university and campuses.

How To Apply

If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.

Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.

Considerations

This is an OPS/temporary job.

The position is full-time and includes health benefits.

Based on the duties, this position may require completion of a criminal history background check.

Equal Employment Opportunity

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.