Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Accelerator Technology and Applied Physics Division has an opening for a Project Scientist to join the BELLA Center team.

In this role, you will participate in research relevant to the development of compact laser-driven particle accelerators. This includes R&D for laser-plasma acceleration (LPA) of electrons in underdense targets and applications of these beams (high-energy physics applications, light-source drivers, biomedical applications, and security applications, among others).

You will provide support for the BELLA Center experimental efforts, which includes electron acceleration with the BELLA PW and 100-TW peak-power lasers, novel laser injection methods for generating high-brightness electron beams, plasma targets and diagnostics, beam transport methods, and radiation generation using LPA electron beams. This support includes executing numerical codes to model the relevant physical processes as well as supporting design and execution of experiments.

What You Will Do:

• Conduct research to develop laser-plasma acceleration of particle beams.

• Provide modeling support for the BELLA Center experimental program. 

• Participate in the design and analysis of experimental campaigns using the BELLA laser beamlines.

• Document and communicate results of work in journal publications and oral presentations, and participate in meetings, conferences, and program reviews.

• Work collaboratively with BELLA Center and ATAP Division scientists, engineers, post-doctoral scholars, technicians, operational staff, and students.

• Adhere to DOE and LBNL safety guidelines and safety culture, and contribute to an inclusive and supportive work environment for all. This includes carrying out LBNL’s core mission on IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access).

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Physics or related field, plus postdoctoral research experience or equivalent breadth and depth of experience.

• Experience with particle-in-cell codes for modeling laser- and beam-plasma interactions.

• Experience with charged particle beam transport and diagnostic development.  

• Experience performing plasma accelerator R&D, including a track record of publications in the field.

• Ability to work independently and in collaboration, both within and outside LBNL.

• Basic knowledge of particle optics and elements of accelerator physics.

• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with all members of ATAP, including other scientists, engineers, postdoctoral scholars, and students.

• Ability to work effectively in a safety-focused environment and conduct work in accordance with safety rules and systems.

• Capability to be flexible and creative in pursuing new topics and carrying out forefront research in the area of laser-matter interactions and particle acceleration.

Salary:

The targeted salary range for this position is $9,927 to $13,897 per month. Salary range for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualifications and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, plus also aligned with the internal peer group. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.

Notes:

• In their application, the applicants are invited to include a cover letter detailing their qualifications with regard to the specific requirements mentioned in this posting, their accomplishments in the field of accelerator science and technology, and a statement describing their research interests.

• This is a full-time, 2 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of five years, 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.

• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links: Know your rights, click here for the supplement: Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.