Postdoctoral Research Associate in Accelerator Physics

Arizona State University has embarked on a multi-year project to develop novel compact X-ray sources including the Compact X-ray FEL (CXFEL) generating ultrashort and coherent X-rays in a room-sized facility. We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate working on the physics of high brightness electron and photon beams, and the technologies for their production. The areas of research span a range of topics important to the production of coherent x-rays from a compact accelerator including high brightness electron beam physics, coherent radiation emission from relativistic electrons, photoinjector R&D, and sophisticated controls and diagnostics of photon and electron beams.  The successful applicant will join the team constructing the Compact X-ray Free-Electron Laser (CXFEL) under a recent NSF midscale research infrastructure award. CXFEL will be a novel fully coherent x-ray laser capable of temporal and spectral shaping of the x-ray output that presents opportunities to develop an original research program in related ultrafast science.  The successful candidate will model the electron beam physics of CXFEL, participate in construction of the accelerator, and participate in prototype experiments at ASU’s existing Compact X-ray Light Source (CXLS).

Essential Duties:

Design and construction of accelerator equipment, simulation and R&D in high-brightness electron beam physics including operating electron accelerator, femtosecond laser, and controls and monitors for diagnostics of photon and electron beams.  Training and supervising graduate and undergraduate students. Highly skilled technical writing including lab reports, scientific presentations and publications, and grant applications.  Working in multidisciplinary teams that span different research areas and academic units.

Environment:

15,000 sq. ft. of state-of-the-art accelerator, laser, and x-ray labs with precise environmental controls located within a newly constructed research building within ASU’s Biodesign Institute. 

Qualifications:

• Applicants must have a recent Ph.D (within last 4 years) in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated knowledge of high brightness electron accelerator physics and technology
• Excellent verbal, presentation, and technical report writing skills
• Ability to work within multidisciplinary project team

To Apply

Please submit to https://apply.interfolio.com/124852 the following materials:  1) a cover letter specifying relevant qualifications and training, 2) curriculum vitae, 3) statement of current research interests and expertise (2-page maximum), 4) contact information for at least three professional references, and 5) list of recent publications.  Please include “Application for Research Scientist – Accelerator Physics” in the email subject line.  Initial review of applications will begin on May 15, 2023; As long as the position is not filled, review will continue every week thereafter until the search is closed. A background check is required for employment.  The salary range for this position is $56,000 and up for appropriately qualified applicants.

Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access.  This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves.  Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines.  ASU serves more than 80,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city.  ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and it welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe. ASU is in the Phoenix metropolitan area in Tempe, Arizona and is one of the largest universities in the U.S.

Arizona State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.