Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Ultrafast X-ray Science of Quantum Materials

Description

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.  The scope of the project includes both the construction of the x-ray light source and construction of endstation focusing on biology, AMO physics, and condensed matter physics.  We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate working on the application of ultrashort x-rays to current scientific applications in condensed matter physics. 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 down to attosecond timescales that presents opportunities to develop an original research program in ultrafast science of quantum materials.  The successful candidate will participate in construction and commissioning of the CXFEL quantum materials endstation, participate in commissioning experiments at ASU’s existing Compact X-ray Light Source (CXLS), and XFEL beamtimes as appropriate to build expertise in the operation and construction of XFEL experiments.

For more information contact Samuel Teitelbaum: samuelt@asu.edu.

Essential Duties

The postdoc is also expected to participate in the commissioning and early science experiments on the instrument. The postdoc is expected to take a leadership role in the design and construction of the equipment related to Quantum Materials research at CXFEL.  This includes construction of femtosecond laser diagnostics and long-wavelength generation setups, controls and monitors for x-ray detectors, construction and characterization of vacuum chambers, commissioning of closed cycle cryogenic systems and load locks. This position also includes the opportunity to participate in and lead beamtimes at the ASU CXLS, XFEL and synchrotron user facilities to inform the design and construction of the CXFEL quantum materials endstation.

The postdoc is expected to train and supervise graduate and undergraduate students, be highly skilled in technical writing including lab reports, scientific presentations and publications.  The postdoc is expected to work in multidisciplinary teams that span different research areas and academic units.

Qualifications

Required:

• Applicants must have a recent Ph.D (within last 4 years) in Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated knowledge of at least one of the following: experimental condensed matter physics, femtosecond laser systems, and x-ray science at high brightness sources (e.g. synchrotrons and XFELs)
• Excellent verbal, presentation, and technical report writing skills
• Ability to work within multidisciplinary project team

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with construction of ultra-high vacuum (UHV) chambers
• Software development and data analysis in experience in one or more of the following programming languages and software tools: Python, MATLAB, EPICS, C , shell scripting
• Demonstrated knowledge with production of intense long-wavelength radiation (THz and mid-infrared radiation)
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with soft x-rays and soft x-ray optics and detectors

Application Instructions

Applicants should send a cover letter specifying relevant qualifications and training, curriculum vitae, contact information for at least three professional references, and a list of publications to the application link.  Review of applications will continue until the search is closed.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

A background check is required for employment. Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

See https://www.asu.edu/aad/manuals/acd/acd401.html and https://www.asu.edu/titleIX/.

 

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