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

In this experimental-oriented role, the candidate will participate in research relevant to the development of robust, compact, and efficient laser-driven particle accelerators. This includes accelerator-relevant laser development, laser-plasma acceleration (LPA) of electrons in underdense targets, acceleration of protons and heavier ions in overdense targets, and applications of these particle beams (biomedical applications, security applications, and light-source drivers, among others).

Experimental efforts involve multi-GeV electron and multi-MeV ion acceleration with the BELLA TeraWatt and PetaWatt 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. Development of high-peak-power high-average power laser systems is another core pillar of the experimental program at the BELLA Center and partnering with various programs within the ATAP division. This includes fiber-based amplification, coherent combination techniques, and nonlinear pulse spectral broadening and compression.

What You Will Do:

• Develop experimental campaigns to pursue relevant research on laser-plasma acceleration, which could include laser systems R&D, underdense and overdense plasma targetry, diagnostics, particle beam transport, and light source development.
• Participate in the development and execution of experimental campaigns towards laser-driven particle beam acceleration to advance applications in a broad range of areas using the BELLA PW and multi-TW laser beamlines.
• Participate in the development of robust, stable, and high-peak power laser systems, ranging from few-Watt of average power (for multi-Joule-class few-Hz systems or few-mJ kHz systems) to novel architectures towards kiloWatt average power and beyond (for example, >100 mJ pulses at multi-kHz rep rates).
• Analyze experimental data and develop numerical and analytical models of physical processes.
• Document and communicate results of work in peer-reviewed 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.
• Provide training, guidance, mentoring, and supervision to those assigned to work with you in a supportive and constructive manner.  This could include internship students, PhD candidates, or visiting scientists through the various collaboration opportunities. 
• 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 (examples include Matlab, LabView, Python, C++), and optical and/or particle beamline design software.
• Experiment experience with laser-plasma accelerators including publications in the field.
• Experience with high-power laser systems; working knowledge of ultrafast optics and fiber lasers.
• Experience with control systems, including feedback and stabilization systems.
• Experience and expertise in the inception, design, engineering, experimental realization, and analysis of laser-matter interaction studies.
• Recognition as a high-impact contributor as evidenced by conference presentations, publications in refereed journals, invited lectures, and awards.
• 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, high energy density laboratory physics, state-of-the-art laser development, and laser-particle acceleration.

Salary:

The full salary range of this position is between $7,256 to $17,415 per month and is expected to pay between a targeted range of $9,675 to $13,545 per month depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.  It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 2 year, career-track 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.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

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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.

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