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Surface Analysis Research Specialist
Full-time
Ithaca, NY, USA
USD 82,735-97,834 / year
Posted on Oct 6, 2026
The Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR) has an immediate opening for a Surface Analysis Research Specialist (job class Research Support Specialist III). This position serves as a vital member of CCMR’s team of experts supporting fundamental materials research in our core facility on the Ithaca campus. CCMR encourages applications from individuals who have the skills and desire to enable cutting-edge research and train the next generation of researchers.
The successful candidate will bring advanced training in a relevant discipline (e.g., materials science, physical science, or engineering) and experience with X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and related surface analysis techniques. A self-motivated work ethic along with excellent communications and interpersonal skills will be critical to success in this role. The position is ideal for someone who enjoys collaborating with others and who can adeptly operate scientific instrumentation, optimize sample analyses, and prioritize multiple, changing tasks.
The Role
As Surface Analysis Research Specialist, you will directly support surface analysis techniques, primarily XPS (Xray photoemission spectroscopy) and profilometry, but also other techniques such as electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, spectroscopy, or focused ion beam. You will develop analytical techniques, find creative solutions to research requests, and upgrade and troubleshoot instrumentation. Along with other team members, you will work closely with facility users to plan measurements and provide hands-on training.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Training researchers on safe and proper use of moderately complex instrumentation, ensuring acquisition of high-quality data
- Developing new protocols and procedures in XPS, electron microscopy, scanned probe microscopy, confocal microscopy, and more.
- Performing analyses for off-campus users and compiling research summary reports
- Developing instrument use (standard operating procedures) and lab safety protocols
- Documenting and disseminating procedures via training sessions, online documentation, and video tutorials
- Working with instrument vendors to improve or update instrument capabilities
- Monitoring records of equipment usage and maintenance for accounting, safety, and billing purposes
- Performing routine preventative maintenance tasks and procuring inventory, supplies, and maintenance items
As part of the Cornell community, you will help foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.
About Us
The Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR) supports fundamental materials research and serves students, scientists, and researchers from Cornell and other academic, government, or industry researchers from around the world. This vibrant and active facility of shared instrumentation is overseen by expert facility staff who maintain instruments, train the next generation of materials researchers, and analyze samples as a service for offsite customers.
What We Need
Send us a cover letter and resume outlining your interest in this position and explaining how your experience and qualifications match the position requirements. Your letter is an important component of your application. Note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
When evaluating your candidacy, we will look for evidence of the following:
- Master’s degree in materials science, physical science, engineering, or similar discipline and 3–5 years’ experience with XPS (x-ray photoemission spectroscopy) and related surface analysis techniques, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
- Demonstrated strong work ethic and self-motivation
- Ability to work independently as well as collaborate effectively with others
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Desire to enable cutting-edge research and train the next generation of researchers
- Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members
Additionally, although not required, we would like to see clear evidence of:
- Ph.D. in materials science, physical science, engineering, or similar discipline
- Experience with atomic force microscopy and related techniques, such as force imaging, piezo-force microscopy, electric-force microscopy, or magnetic force microscopy
- Strong organizational skills and supervisory experience
Rewards and Benefits
- This position is located in Ithaca, New York on the campus of Cornell University. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.
- Our benefits programs include comprehensive health care options, generous retirement contributions, access to wellness programs, and employee discounts with local and national retail brands. We invite you to follow this link to get more information about our benefits: Understand Your Benefits | Working at Cornell.
- Our leave provisions include health and personal leave, three weeks of vacation and 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1. To offer greater flexibility for observing faiths and traditions, we also offer two additional floating holidays. Learn more about our generous leave provisions: Holiday and Accrued Time Off | Working at Cornell.
- Cornell's impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, tuition aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program. Learn more about our extensive educational benefits: Education Benefits | Working at Cornell.
University Job Title:
Research Support Spec III
Job Family:
Academic Support
Level:
G
Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Pay Range:
$82,735.00 - $97,834.00
Remote Option Availability:
Onsite
Company:
Endowed
Contact Name:
Kathy McKee
Contact Email:
kem342@cornell.edu
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Prior relevant work or industry experience
Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position
Unique applicable skills
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2026-10-05