NIST is seeking a Computational Materials Scientist to develop multi-physics, multi-scale models for quantum materials, semiconductors, and metals. Design high-throughput workflows and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, including graph neural networks and Machine Learning (ML) force fields. Investigate transport and superconductivity to accelerate U.S. semiconductor innovation.
This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit talent that NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.
Qualifications:
Basic Requirements:Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics.
OR
Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
AND
In addition to the basic requirements: Applicants must also have 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST) level. Specialized experience is defined as:
- Performing electronic structure simulations and atomistic calculations to evaluate properties of materials.
- Applying machine learning techniques alongside atomistic simulations to accelerate materials discovery or analysis.
- Conducting research and simulations focused specifically on quantum materials and semiconductor systems.
- Developing computational workflows and managing data repositories or databases for materials science applications.
OR
Master's or equivalent graduate degree
OR
A combination of graduate education and specialized experience as defined in the additional requirements.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.
If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant ReconsiderationEducation:
This position has an education requirement. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment.
Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application.Employment Type: OTHER