Scientific Associate – Large Language Model for Experiment Control

Apply Now Job ID JR100769Date posted 01/02/2024

The Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN) at Brookhaven is a DOE-funded national scientific user facility, offering users a supported research experience with top-caliber scientists and access to state-of-the-art instrumentation. The CFN mission is advancing nanoscience through frontier fundamental research and technique development and is the nexus of a broad collaboration network. Each year, CFN staff members support the research of nearly 600 external facility users. Three strategic nanoscience themes underlie the CFN scientific facilities: The CFN conducts research on
nanomaterial synthesis by assembly designing precise architectures with targeted functionality by organizing nanoscale components. The CFN researches and applies platforms for state-of-the-art techniques for Accelerated Nanomaterial Discovery, integrating synthesis, advanced characterization, physical modeling, and computer science to iteratively explore a wide range of material parameters. The CFN develops and utilizes advanced capabilities for studies of Nanomaterials in Operando Conditions for characterizing materials and reactions at the atomic scale in real-world environments.

Position Description

The CFN is seeking an exceptional researcher to pursue frontier research in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) for advanced scientific discovery. The CFN has a productive research program on accelerating material discovery and developing autonomous experimentation. In this position, you will be involved in the development of a virtual assistant for intuitive control and efficient human-computer interaction for X-ray experiments at Brookhaven’s synchrotron. Your project will include the development of machine-learning methods and the deployment of the virtual assistant at multi-tasking experimental workstations, specifically at the X-ray scattering beamline CMS (Complex Materials Scattering). You will research frontier natural language processing (NLP) and large language model (LLM) methods, and adapt them to science contexts. You will be a member of the Electronic Nanomaterials group working under the supervision of Dr. Esther Tsai. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• You will apply NLP and LLM systems for science contexts.

• You will be responsible for developing and deploying a virtual assistant for the robust conversion from natural language to experimental controls.

• You will collaborate with researchers to create an effective interface for controlling instruments and performing X-ray experiments at NSLS-II with natural language. 

• You will produce software packages for the virtual assistant; disseminate new knowledge on NLP-based experimentation through publications and presentations.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• You have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, physics, mathematics, engineering, or a related discipline. 

• You have experience in research in AI/ML and software development.

• You can communicate effectively by writing scientific papers or giving technical presentations.

• You can demonstrate an ability to work in a group of researchers with diverse academic backgrounds. 

• You are committed to fostering a collaborative environment of safe scientific work practices.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• You have three or more years of experience in AI/ML and/or modern NLP and LLM systems.

• You have experience with modern software development systems, including version control and continuous integration.

• You communicate effectively, both verbally and through technical writing.

Other Information:

• Initial 1-year term appointment subject to renewal contingent on performance and funding 

• Appointment level will be commensurate with experience and qualifications

• This is a fully onsite position located at BNL

Brookhaven Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $67,200- $94,450/year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.

Brookhaven employees are subject to restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Talent Recruitment Programs, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation at the time of hire for review by Brookhaven. The full text of the Order may be found at: https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0486.1-BOrder-a/@@images/file

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Brookhaven Science Associates is an equal opportunity employer that values inclusion and diversity at our Lab. We are committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a veteran, disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. BSA takes affirmative action in support of its policy and to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

*VEVRAA Federal Contractor

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