Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL ) Accelerator Technology and Applied Physics Division (ATAP) 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 laser-plasma acceleration (LPA) of electrons in underdense targets, laser acceleration of protons and ions in overdense targets, and develop applications of these particle beams (high-energy physics applications, biomedical applications, security applications, and light-source drivers, among others).

Provide modeling support for the BELLA Center experimental efforts, which include multi-GeV electron acceleration and laser-ion acceleration with the BELLA PW and 100-TW peak-power lasers, staging of laser-plasma acceleration modules, novel laser injection methods for generating high-quality electron beams, plasma targets and diagnostics, beam transport methods, and radiation generation using LPA electron beams. This support includes executing a variety of numerical codes to model the relevant physical processes, including particle-in-cell codes, simulation toolkits for the passage of particles through matter, and laser and optical propagation modeling.

What You Will Do:

• Provide modeling support for the BELLA Center experimental program. 
• Conduct research to develop laser-plasma acceleration of particle beams; develop numerical and analytical models of the relevant physical processes.
• Participate in the design and analysis of experimental campaigns using the BELLA PW and multi-TW 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 programming (Python, C++).
• Experience with particle-in-cell codes for modeling laser- and beam-plasma interactions.
• Experience with modeling the passage of particle beams through matter (e.g., using simulation toolkits such as GEANT4).
• Experience performing laser-plasma accelerator R&D, including a track record of publications in the field.
• Recognition as a high-impact contributor as evidenced by conference presentations, publications in refereed journals, invited talks, etc.
• Ability to work closely in a team with other scientists, postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, and technicians.
• Ability to work independently and in collaboration with scientists, engineers, and technicians both within and outside LBNL.
• Basic knowledge of laser optics, particle optics, and elements of accelerator physics.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and multi-tasking skills.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with all members of ATAP, including other scientists, engineers, technicians, postdoctoral scholars, and students.
• Ability to travel and present work at collaboration meetings, workshops, and conferences, including international travel.
• 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 high-field laser-matter interactions and laser-particle acceleration.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 2 year, term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years.
• This position will be hired at a level commensurate with the business needs and the skills, knowledge, and abilities of the successful candidate.
• 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.
• This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule - a combination of teleworking and performing work on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.

Based on University of California Policy - SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof that vaccination requirements have been met or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

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.