Instrument Scientist for X-ray Tomography, Diffraction Contrast Tomography and X-ray Diffraction

Instrument Scientist for X-ray Tomography, Diffraction Contrast Tomography and X-ray Diffraction

IMDEA Materials Institute

Madrid, Spain

The Instrument scientist will manage the day-to-day operation of the X-ray lab and keep up to date with relevant scientific and technical developments.

Laboratory management

Scientific experimentation:

• Development, optimization, and validation of instrumental methods using different approaches;
• Develop and maintain laboratory procedures, protocols and instructions;
• Take control of measurement times and associated projects, ensuring quality, accuracy, and regulatory compliance in measurements;
• Advanced maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment;
• Evaluation of possible external services;
• Take part in several research projects, coordination of the measurement planning and user management.

Consultation & coordination:

• Scientific consulting and support of Principal Investigators, Research Associates and Research Assistants;
• Attend meetings with partners, external researchers, and clients to develop work plans;
• Be in close contact with suppliers and management of purchasing process;
• Write research and funding proposals to improve the scientific productivity of the laboratory;
• Health & safety compliance (in coordination with H&S technician):

Dissemination & Training:

• Get involved in the process of preparing and publishing scientific articles;
• Write scientific reports after completing external services to present and explain obtained results;
• Train users in several instrumental techniques to improve skills and knowledge, joined to a well use of the equipment;
• Offer seminars related to X-rays techniques available in the Institute.

Instrument scientist tasks

Provide specialized and strategic expertise in X-ray techniques, delivering reliable results for complex measurement challenges that support and advance research objectives. Supervise advanced users in X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT), Diffraction Contrast Tomography (DCT), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD).

XCT & DCT:

• Plan and execute XCT and DCT measurements according to sample specifications, ensuring optimal data quality and experimental efficiency;
• Oversee the full research pipeline — from data acquisition and reconstruction to segmentation, quantification, and final data presentation;
• Evaluate and apply advanced reconstruction and segmentation methods, including machine learning and AI-based approaches;
• Collaborate with researchers or clients to define and develop tailored quantification techniques (e.g., crack analysis, wall thickness, percolation, or alignment);
• Perform in situ and synchrotron-based scans when required, adapting experimental setups to specific mechanical or material condition.

XRD:

• Define and apply optimal XRD measurement protocols based on sample characteristics, including stress and texture analyses in collaboration with researchers and clients;
• Collaborate with the SAXS/WAXS laboratory to complement XRD results, particularly for polymeric and thin metallic samples;
• Perform data analysis using advanced diffraction software and Rietveld refinement methods to obtain quantitative results;
• Calibrate and maintain XRD equipment to ensure accuracy, including determination of instrumental broadening;
• Manage and update diffraction software tools and databases (e.g., HighScore, X’Pert Texture, X’Pert Stress, GrainMapper3D, ICDD).

Requirements

Academic Qualifications:

• PhD in Materials Science or related fields.

Professional Experience:

• Minimum 6 years of experience in similar laboratory roles in research institutions;
• Demonstrated research work in X-ray characterization (diffraction and imaging);
• Experience with CT scanners and DCT (Diffraction Contrast Tomography) techniques;
• Experience in synchrotron facilities (desirable);
• Indexed publications related to X-ray computed tomography (desirable).

Technical Competencies:

• Expertise in ImageJ, VGStudio MAX, Avizo, HighScore Plus, GrainMapper3D;
• Programming skills (Linux, Python), image processing, and data analysis;
• Knowledge of AI protocols for volume reconstruction;
• Familiarity with in situ devices and their application in XCT;
• Training in laboratory management and/or quality control systems.

Languages:

• English proficiency at B2 level.