ECR Ion Source Research Scientist

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Nuclear Science (NSD) Division has an opening for a Research Scientist to join the team and work with the Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) Ion Source Group. 

In this role, you will collaborate to design, construct, and test the next generation of superconducting ECR ion sources (beyond VENUS) in the Nuclear Science Division. Areas of responsibility include planning and conducting research in the field of ion sources and accelerator physics. This work also involves a collaborative effort with the accelerator group at the 88-Inch Cyclotron to develop, test, and operate existing high-charge-state ECR ion sources. The scientist will apply broad and in-depth technical knowledge and expertise in accelerator physics to research ECR technology to meet the programmatic needs of the 88-Inch Cyclotron.

What You Will Do:

• Participate in a collaborative effort to design, construct, and test the next generation of superconducting Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) ion source (beyond VENUS).
• Apply broad and in-depth technical knowledge and expertise in the field of ECR ion sources towards the conceptualization, design, planning, implementation, and completion of novel complex ion source experiments.
• Plan and conduct research to develop the 28 GHz superconducting ECR ion source VENUS as the prototype driver ion source for FRIB.
• Carry out computer simulations for ion source extraction, 3D magnetic field configurations, and high-intensity beam transport.
• Work with the accelerator group at the 88-Inch Cyclotron to develop, test, and operate existing high-charge-state ECR ion sources.
• Actively support ion source and cyclotron operations, providing technical solutions to ion source operations problems as they arise.
• Independently solve complex problems using ingenuity, creativity, and advanced scientific principles.
• Interact with a diverse range of scientists interested in the science, techniques, and opportunities arising from the work.
• Present research and publish papers and reports, and may act as Principal Investigator on new proposals and projects.
• May be a work lead for technical support staff. May be responsible for laboratory or facility operations with demonstrated experience.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Plan and conduct research to develop machine learning techniques for the tuning and performance optimization of ECR ion sources.
• Contribute to VENUS's overall software development, including liaison with engineers and physicists, participation in software working groups, algorithm development, data storage, and analysis techniques.
• Develop a stripping solution to extract negative ion beams from the 88-Inch Cyclotron.
• Supervise technical support staff and mentor postdocs and students.

What is Required:

• PhD or equivalent experience in experimental plasma physics, nuclear physics, accelerator physics, or atomic physics.
• Up to five years of relevant professional experience beyond the customary highest degree appropriate to the candidate’s discipline in accelerator science, nuclear physics, or related field.
• Relevant professional experience in accelerator physics research, nuclear engineering, experimental nuclear or particle physics.
• Published record of excellence and a strong record of research accomplishments in accelerator physics, nuclear science, or related research.
• Detailed knowledge in at least one of these areas: experimental plasma physics, accelerator physics, or atomic physics.
• Experience designing, fabricating, and testing high-charge state ion sources.
• Demonstrated ability to independently solve complex problems using ingenuity, creativity, and advanced scientific principles.
• Effective communication (verbal and written) and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to act as a work lead for technical support staff.
• Programming experience with Labview, IDL, Mathlab, python, C, C++, or other programming languages.

Desired Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to write proposals, obtain funding, and perform corresponding independent research.

Requested Application Materials:

• Curriculum Vitae and publication list.
• Statement of research experience and interests (3 pages maximum, not including references).
• Statement describing your contributions to diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as your participation in outreach or community engagement activities (1 page maximum).

For full consideration, please apply by midnight on June 30th, 2024, but the position will remain open until filled. For inquiries, please contact jmgates@lbl.gov

Notes:

• This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• This position is expected to pay $104,628- $167,424, which fits within the full salary range of $104,628- $251,124 for the S13.2. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. A conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 16 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

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