Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division has an opening for a Physicist Research Scientist at the BELLA Center.

In this exciting role, you will contribute to research on compact laser-driven particle accelerators within the ATAP Division, focusing on laser-plasma acceleration (LPA) of electrons, protons, and ions, and exploring applications in high-energy physics, biomedical fields, security, and light-source drivers.

You will provide modeling support for the BELLA Center’s experimental efforts, including multi-GeV electron and laser-ion acceleration using the BELLA PW and 100-TW lasers. This involves simulating particle interactions, beam transport, secondary particle generation, and novel injection methods using tools like particle-in-cell codes, GEANT4, and laser propagation models.

Collaboration with BELLA scientists, engineers, postdocs, and students is key. You’ll also document and communicate results in peer-reviewed journals, presentations, and meetings.

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’s safety guidelines and safety culture, and contribute to an inclusive and supportive work environment for all. This includes carrying out LBNL’s core stewardship values.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. and or equivalent experience in Physics or a related field, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with modern programming techniques
• 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.
• Proven ability to work with experimental teams to connect experimental data with theory and modeling.
• 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.
• Basic knowledge of laser optics, plasma physics, and accelerator technology.

Notes:

• This is a full-time, career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• The full salary range of this position is between $8,928 to $21,429 per month and is expected to pay between a targeted range of $11,905 to $16,667 per month depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience plus also aligned with the internal peer group. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.
• This position is 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.
• As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Berkeley Lab is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility 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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