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Scattering Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do scattering scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for scattering scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Scattering Scientist vs Materials Scientist?

AspectScattering ScientistMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in physics, materials science, or related fieldsMaster's or PhD in materials science, chemistry, or engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesManufacturing facilities, research labs, industry settings
Industry UsageFocuses on analyzing material structures using scattering techniquesDevelops and tests new materials for various applications

While both roles require advanced degrees and involve research, a Scattering Scientist specializes in analyzing material structures through scattering methods, whereas a Materials Scientist focuses on developing and testing new materials. The roles often overlap in research settings but differ in their primary focus and techniques used.

What are scattering scientists?

Scattering scientists are researchers who study how particles, atoms, or molecules scatter various forms of radiation, such as X-rays, neutrons, or light. Their work often involves conducting experiments at specialized facilities, analyzing scattering data, and applying theoretical models to understand the structure and properties of materials at the atomic or molecular level. Scattering scientists contribute to advancements in fields such as physics, chemistry, materials science, and biology by providing insights into the arrangement and dynamics of matter. Their expertise is essential for developing new materials, pharmaceuticals, and nanotechnologies.

How does a Scattering Scientist typically collaborate with interdisciplinary teams during a research project?

Scattering Scientists often work closely with physicists, chemists, engineers, and data analysts to design and execute experiments using techniques like X-ray, neutron, or light scattering. Collaboration involves coordinating experiment schedules, sharing data, and jointly interpreting results to address complex research questions. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as experiments may require input from multiple specialties to optimize methodologies and troubleshoot technical challenges. This teamwork not only enhances the quality of research but also fosters professional growth by exposing scientists to diverse perspectives and expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Scattering Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scattering Scientist, you need a solid background in physics, materials science, or a related field, often with a PhD and experience in neutron or X-ray scattering techniques. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory instrumentation, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills help in designing experiments and working within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for conducting high-quality research, interpreting complex data, and advancing scientific understanding in material characterization.
Infographic showing various Scattering Scientist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 9% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 29% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.
Associate Staff Scientist - SSRL Resonant X-ray Scattering

Associate Staff Scientist - SSRL Resonant X-ray Scattering

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

SLAC Job Postings
Position Overview:
The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL), a Directorate of the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, is seeking an Associate Staff Scientist with a strong experimental background in quantum materials research, particularly with expertise in resonant soft X-ray scattering (RSXS), to join the Soft X-ray Group of the Materials Sciences Division. The successful candidate will focus on the development, operation, scientific user support, and in-house research program of the RSXS endstation and related X-ray capabilities at SSRL.
SSRL's capabilities at BL13 provide world-leading resonant soft X-ray scattering techniques, enabling spatially and spectroscopically resolved studies of correlated electronic phenomena through energy- and momentum-sensitive measurements. These capabilities allow detailed investigations of charge, spin, orbital, and lattice degrees of freedom in quantum materials. In this role, you will lead efforts to operate, maintain, and further develop the RSXS endstation at BL13.
To fully leverage the RSXS capabilities at BL13, you will design and implement advanced sample environments in ultrahigh vacuum, including high magnetic fields, strain, and microwave excitation. These developments will enable studies of quantum materials under externally controlled conditions and expand the scientific scope of BL13 beyond traditional bulk single crystals to include thin films, two-dimensional materials, and complex heterostructures.
The successful candidate will pursue quantum materials research with a strong emphasis on RSXS, and will join the Soft X-ray Group , which leads research programs using other synchrotron-based tools. This position offers opportunities for innovative research and leading publications. An essential aspect of this role is to support and expand the RSXS user community at SSRL by working closely with users to design optimized experiments and develop new capabilities. The candidate will collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technical staff in support of SSRL's scientific mission and DOE research priorities.
You r specific responsibilities include:
  • Conduct and support quantum materials research within the Soft X-ray Group, leveraging the RSXS capabilities at SSRL.
  • Lead the development, optimization, and routine operation of the RSXS beamline and endstation in collaboration with scientific, engineering, and technical staff.
  • Design and implement specialized sample environments for RSXS measurements.
  • Develop data analysis tools, workflows, and software pipelines to efficiently process and interpret scattering data.
  • Work closely with users to design optimized RSXS experiments and support their research programs.
  • Grow and support the RSXS user community at SSRL by engaging new research groups and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations.
Note: This position is posted at the Associate Staff Scientist level. The Associate Scientist position is a 3-to-5-year fixed-term position and the entry level in the Staff Scientist career path. The Associate Scientist position is scheduled to be assessed after the 3 to 5-year period, with the possibility of appointment to the Staff Scientist level.
Applicants must hold a PhD degree or provide formal confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Application materials must include a cover letter, a research statement (including a brief-summary of accomplishments), a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references for future letters of recommendation.
SLAC is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory operated by Stanford University and based in Menlo Park, CA. Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require on-site work.
To be successful in this position, you will bring:
  • Ph.D. in physics, applied physics, materials science, or related discipline, and at least 2 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
  • Demonstrated research experience in quantum materials supported by publications and experimental achievements.
  • Hands-on experience and expertise with soft X-ray synchrotron-based RSXS.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
SLAC employee competencies:
  • Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
  • Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
  • Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
  • Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
  • Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
  • Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
  • Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
Physical requirements and Working conditions :
  • Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
Work standards:
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1 General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
  • As an organization that receives federal funding, SLAC and Stanford University have a COVID-19 vaccination requirement that will apply to all university employees, including those working remotely in the United States and applicable subcontractors. To learn more about COVID policies and guidelines for Stanford University Staff, please visit https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/working-stanford/covid-19/interim-policies/covid-19-surveillance-testing-policy
  • As a national laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives
  • Classification Title: Associate Staff Scientist
  • Grade: K, Job code: 1092
  • Duration: 3-year fixed term
The expected pay range for this position is $145,411 - $173,254 per annum .
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. 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, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At SLAC/Stanford, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.

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