Electron Microscopy & XRay Spectroscopy Specialist

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Job Posting Title:

Electron Microscopy & XRay Spectroscopy Specialist

   

Position Type:

Other Academic

   

Department:

LSUAM ORED - STEM - Advanced Microscopy and Analytical Core (Dongmei Cao (00004659))

   

Work Location:

0121 Chemistry & Materials Building

   

Pay Grade:

Other Academic

   

Job Description:

The Advanced Microscopy and Analytical Core (AMAC) at Louisiana State University is seeking a talented and dynamic Electron Microscopy and X-ray Spectroscopy specialist with demonstrated expertise in techniques such as FIB/SEM, EDS, EBSD, XRD, XPS, Raman, and X-ray MicroCT. In this role, you will work closely with other AMAC staff to develop and implement effective characterization applications using major AMAC instruments—including the FEI Quanta 3D Ga FIB/SEM with Bruker µXRF and EDS, Thermo Fisher Helios G5 CXe PFIB/SEM with Oxford EDS/EBSD, Malvern Panalytical XRD, ScientaOmicron XPS, Renishaw inVia Raman microscope, Thermo Fisher X-ray MicroCT, and related sample preparation equipment. The primary goal of this position is to support and advance the education and research mission of a diverse community of academic and industry users, enabling high-quality materials characterization and impactful scientific outcomes. AMAC offers a dynamic environment with the opportunity to support impactful research and contribute to the growth of an advanced materials characterization hub serving LSU and Louisiana’s scientific community.

Job Responsibilities:

Provide expert training, user support, and operational support on major AMAC instruments, including: FEI Quanta 3D Ga FIB/SEM with Bruker µXRF and EDS; Thermo Fisher Helios G5 CXe PFIB/SEM with Oxford EDS/EBSD; Malvern Panalytical XRD; Scienta Omicron XPS; Renishaw inVia Raman microscope; Thermo Fisher X-ray MicroCT (45%)

Utilize commercial and scientific software tools for data processing, interpretation, visualization, and statistical evaluation. Generate high-quality technical reports and deliver clear, professional communication of findings and recommendations to users. (15%)

Conduct laboratory demonstrations and contribute to instructional activities in support of academic courses and student training. Develop, refine, and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for instrument use, data acquisition, and analytical workflows. Develop advanced analytical methodologies to address diverse user research needs and complex materials challenges. (10%)

Manage and oversee instrument scheduling, facility usage, and safe operation. Perform routine maintenance and assist in troubleshooting and service coordination for analytical, metrology, and sample preparation equipment.  (10%)

Provide regular updates to the AMAC Director on equipment status, facility utilization, and ongoing project activities. Support strategic outreach initiatives and help expand AMAC’s visibility and service portfolio. (10%)

Perform other tasks as assigned in support of AMAC operations and growth. (10%)

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's Degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering or a closely related field, plus two years experience OR a Bachelor's Degree ( in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related field) plus 6 years of experience.

Extensive hands-on experience w/key techniques & instrumentation such as FIB/SEM, EDS, EBSD, XRD, XPS & associated sample preparation workflows.  Experience w/post-processing of analytical datasets, including extracting meaningful information, identifying trends, and establishing structure–property–processing relationships.  Strong organizational/project management skills, ability to prioritize independently, manage multiple tasks, & maintain high-quality data records.  Excellent analytical and statistical capabilities for evaluating characterization results.  Exceptional written and verbal communication skills suitable for diverse audiences.  Ability to work independently. 

Preferred Qualifications:

Ph.D in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related field and 3 or more years of experience.

Strong hands-on skills in TEM, STEM, Raman, X-ray MicroCT, and TEM sample preparation using FIB. Experience developing new analytical workflows, methods, or applications to address complex materials challenges. Prior experience working in a shared-user facility, collaborative research environment, or industry-focused analytical lab.

   

Additional Job Description:

Special Instructions:

Please provide a cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references including name, title, phone number, and e-mail address.

Please attach ALL required documents under the "Resume/CV" section of your application.

A copy of your transcript(s) may be attached to your application (if available). However, original transcripts are required before hiring.

Due to the nature of the position and/or position responsibilities, this position shall be subject to pre-employment screenings in accordance with University Policy as required and RS:17 screenings (https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?p=y&d=1297548).

This position is considered operational essential and may be asked to work during an official closure but is otherwise not required to report to the physical campus during a closure and whose absence does not present a risk to the safety resource, and well-being of the campus per FASOP HR-01.

For questions or concerns about updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email [email protected].
For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact Dr. Dongmei Cao at [email protected].

   

Posting Date:

January 5, 2026

   

Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):

  

Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

   

Essential Position (Y/N):

   

LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

   

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.

   

HCM Contact Information: