Research Scientist Career Track (Multiple Openings)

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Accelerator Tech-Applied Physics (ATAP) Division has an opening for a Research Scientist Career Track (Multiple Openings) to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will perform research and participate in experiments on laser-plasma acceleration of electrons and ions and on applications of these particle beams.  This includes multi-GeV electron acceleration with the BELLA  PW laser, staging of laser-plasma acceleration modules, research on novel laser injection methods for generating high quality electron beams, development of plasma targets, development of diagnostics, beam transport methods, and R&D on radiation generation using laser-plasma accelerator electron beams.

What You Will Do:

• Perform experiments on the laser-driven acceleration of ion beams using the BELLA PW high-intensity (IP2) beamline, the transport of laser-driven ion beams, and the application of these beams to biological research and high energy density physics studies.  
• Participate in the development and execution of experimental campaigns with novel particle beams to advance applications in a broad range of areas using the BELLA PW and hundred TW (HTW) laser beamlines.
• Work collaboratively with BELLA Center and ATAP scientists, engineers, postdocs, technicians, and students, document and communicate results of work in peer-reviewed journal publications and oral presentations, and participate in meetings, conferences, and reviews.
• Develop and perform experiments to investigate (1) laser-plasma acceleration of electrons and ions and/or (2) conduct experiments with novel particle beams in selected application areas.  
• Analyze experimental data and develop numerical and analytical models of physical processes.
• Document and communicate the results of work in reports and oral presentations, including participation in meetings, reviews, conferences, and publications in refereed journals.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Physics or related field plus postdoctoral research experience, or equivalent breadth and depth of experience.
• Experimental experience with laser-plasma accelerators including publications in the field.
• Experience with high-power laser systems; working knowledge of laser optics and laser physics.
• Experience and expertise in the inception, design, engineering, experimental realization, and analysis of experimental laser-matter interaction studies.
• Knowledge of particle optics and elements of accelerator physics
• Ability to work closely in a team with other scientists, postdocs, graduate students, and technicians.
• Ability to work independently and in collaboration with scientists, engineers, and technicians both within and outside LBNL.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and multi-tasking skills.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with all members of ATAP, including other scientists, engineers, technicians, postdocs, and students.
• Capability to be flexible and creative in pursuing new topics and carrying out forefront research in the area of high-field laser-matter interactions, high energy density laboratory physics, and laser-particle acceleration.
• Availability to travel and present work at collaboration meetings, workshops, and conferences, including international travel.
• Recognition as a high impact contributor as evidenced by conference presentations, publications in refereed journals, invited lectures, and awards.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with programming (Matlab, Python, C++, etc.) and optical and/or particle beamline design software.
• Familiarity with mechanical engineering principles of optomechanics.

Notes:

• This is a full time, 2 years, term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years and that may be converted to career based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.
• 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. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at Berkeley Lab. Our excellence can only be fully realized by faculty, students, and staff who share our commitment to these values. Successful candidates for our faculty positions will demonstrate evidence of a commitment to advancing equity and inclusion.
• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. Berkeley Lab is in compliance with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4. Click here to view the poster and supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law."

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups presently considering scientific research careers.