Job Information
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory Associate Scientist - Ultrafast Atomic, Molecular and Optical (AMO) Sciences in Menlo Park, California
Associate Scientist - Ultrafast Atomic, Molecular and Optical (AMO) Sciences
Job ID
5956
Location
SLAC - Menlo Park, CA
Full-Time
Temporary
SLAC Job Postings
Position overview:
The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) facility at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory seeks an experimental scientist to support user operations at LCLS, develop new science capabilities and related instrumentation for the facility (with a focus on charged particle spectroscopy (XAS/XES)), and develop machine learning techniques and automated processing pipelines to analyze large datasets collected with our new high repetition rate machine. There is an expectation that the candidate will develop a successful self-led scientific research project/portfolio as well.
LCLS is one of the world’s premier research facilities, providing an internationally leading capability in the form of the world’s first hard X-ray free electron laser. LCLS operates as a user facility for a global community of scientists, providing ultra-short, ultra-bright pulses of X-rays to multiple experimental instruments focused on specific areas of science. A major upgrade project (LCLS-II) is currently underway that will further transform the capabilities of this facility – with impact in the field of atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO), chemical dynamics, and material science research.
The successful candidate will have a proven track record of recognized scientific achievement in ultrafast atomic, molecular and optical (AMO) science and gas-phase chemical dynamics. We seek a candidate with a particular focus on charged-particle spectroscopy and the development of data analysis techniques related to large datasets. The position will be appointed jointly between the Science Research and Development (SRD) and Data Systems (EDS) divisions at LCLS, with line management through the AMO science department of SRD.
Your specific responsibilities will include, but are not limited to the following:
Provide experimental support to the current and potential future LCLS user community to achieve the highest possible impact from the new high rep-rate enabled LCLS-II instruments.
Work with the LCLS-II & instrument development teams to define, develop and deploy new state-of-the-art capabilities for LCLS, LCLS-II, and LCLS-II-HE, focusing on the field of atomic molecular, and optical sciences: electron dynamics and the dynamics of isolated quantum systems.
Participate in and work to further develop the LCLS in-house science, research, and development program as a member of the AMOS Department in the Science, Research and Development (SRD) division of LCLS.
Development of analysis packages (both online and offline) for datasets collected with the new reaction microscope endstation (DREAM) coming online at the TMO hutch.
Further development of the automatic run processing (ARP) pipeline for experiments at the TMO experimental hutch, in a regime of quasi-real time analysis, aimed at fast feedback for experiment steering.
Note : This position is posted at the Associate Staff Scientist level. The Associate Staff Scientist position is the entry level in the Staff Scientist career path and is a 3 to 5-year fixed term research staff position. The Associate position is scheduled to be assessed after the 3 to 5-year period with the possibility of appointment to the Staff Scientist level. Applicants should include a cover letter, a statement of research, including a summary of accomplishments, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and names of three-to-five references for future letters of recommendation with the application.
To be successful in this position you will bring:
Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, or related field and 2 years of research experience in ultrafast, optical and X-ray/electron science including:
Experience developing and delivering research activities, including progress reports, proposals, requirements documentation, and presentations to diverse stakeholders.
Experience supporting complex user facilities and/or R&D environments.
Experience in the design and development of complex scientific software, with particular focus on the integration of analysis software with experimental setup management.
Research record as evidenced by a publication record commensurate with level of work experience.
Carry out independent research, collaborate closely with colleagues conducting research, and participate in the writing of scientific proposals to fund research.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts.
Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population.
Ability to collaborate across organizations and manage/lead cross-functional efforts.
In addition, desired skills and experience include:
Well-established standing within the FEL/ultrafast science communities.
Familiarity with charged particle spectroscopy and gas phase sample delivery
Familiarity with advanced data analysis and techniques for analyzing large datasets.
SLAC employee competencies:
Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
Physical requirements and working conditions:
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
May work extended hours during peak business cycles. The ability to travel to synchrotron and XFEL facilities around the world to perform experiments.
Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work.
Work standards:
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety, and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1—General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
Classification Title: Associate Scientist
Job Code: 1092, Grade: K
Employment Duration: 3-year fixed term
The expected pay range for this position is $115,000 to $173,000 per annum. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. All staff at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory must be able to demonstrate the legal right to work in the United States. SLAC is an E-Verify employer.