Research Associate - Attosecond Electron Motion

SLAC Job Postings

Position Overview

The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is looking for a motivated Research Associate to push the frontiers of ultrafast science. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of attosecond electron dynamics, x-ray spectroscopy and data science.

The LCLS is a world-leading x-ray free-electron laser that is enabling a new generation of experimental measurements on the attosecond timescale. With these experiments, we are building new knowledge on the quantum mechanical motion of electrons in molecules. This new insight on the subatomic world will help drive the next generation of quantum technology. The successful candidate will work with the Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics group at the LCLS and the Attosecond Dynamics Research Group at the Stanford PULSE Institute. They will develop new hardware and data analysis tools that will enable pioneering measurements of attosecond electron dynamics in large molecular systems.

Your responsibilities:

• Design and build new instrumentation to deliver large (>1 kDa) molecules into the gas phase for attosecond x-ray spectroscopy.
• Develop new statistical methods and machine learning algorithms to extract information on attosecond electron dynamics from petabyte-scale datasets.
• Contribute to first-of-their-kind discoveries in attosecond electron dynamics in large molecules.

Note : The Research Associate role is a fixed term staff position. This is a 2-year fixed term position with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding.

Applicants must provide evidence of either a recently completed PhD degree or confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Applicants should also include a cover letter, a statement of research area including brief summary of accomplishments, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and names of at least three references from whom letters of recommendation will form part of the application.

To be successful in this position you will bring:

• Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, or a related field (recently completed or confirmed prior to starting).
• Strong research background demonstrating the ability to solve complex and lengthy problems.
• Proficiency in statistical methods and machine learning for data analysis.
• Experience working with ultrahigh vacuum systems and ultrafast laser systems.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

In addition, preferred requirements include:

• Prior experience with sample delivery in ultrahigh vacuum environments.
• Experience developing machine learning algorithms.

Candidates will provide evidence of either a recently completed PhD degree in the area of physics, chemistry, or a related field, and confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position.

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, team 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 his or her job.

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:
• 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,
• As a national laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

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• Classification Title: Research Associate Experimental
• Job code: 0127, Grade: G
• Employment Duration: 2 years fixed term

The expected pay range for this position is $70,000 - $100,000 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.