Postdoctoral Research Associate - Neuromorphic Computing for Pixelated Detectors

Requisition Id 15682 

 

Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to the NEUROPIX project, an interdisciplinary effort at the intersection of high-energy physics (HEP) detectors, neuromorphic computing, FPGA/ASIC design, and machine learning for edge processing.

 

The successful candidate will work with a multi-institutional and multi-disciplinary team to develop AI-enabled, low-latency signal-processing algorithms for next-generation pixel detectors used in high-energy physics experiments.

 

This position offers the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research spanning detector simulation, Spiking Neural Network (SNN) design, neuromorphic hardware, and data-rich experimental systems such as CMS pixel detectors, Timepix4, and novel photodetector technologies.

 

This position resides in the Relativistic Nuclear and High Energy Physics group in the Physics Division, Physical Science Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

Depending on background and interest, responsibilities may include:

 

Neuromorphic & ML Algorithm Development:

• Development and training of Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) for clustering, classification, and interpolation of pixel detector data.
• Exploration of spike-based data encoding/decoding strategies.
• Hyperparameter optimization using advanced computing resources (e.g., HPC clusters).

 

Detector Simulation & Data Processing:

• Use and extension of Allpix2 and TCAD-based simulation tools.
• Generation of large simulation datasets for algorithm training and validation.
• Integration of simulation with neuromorphic platforms.

 

FPGA / Hardware-Embedded AI:

• Deployment of SNNs to FPGA-based neuromorphic hardware (e.g., NeuroSpike/NeuroSpark).
• RTL generation using HLS workflows and evaluation of resource usage, latency, and performance.
• Participation in hardware test benches for real detector systems.

 

Experimental Detector Work:

• Testing and characterization of pixel detectors (CMS HL-LHC, Timepix4, AC-LGAD, PDCs).
• On-sensor data processing demonstration with hardware prototypes.
• Potential involvement in beam tests or radiation-source laboratory setups.

 

Basic Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field.
• Experience in at least one of the following areas:
  • FPGA programming (VHDL/Verilog, HLS)
  • Pixel detectors in high-energy physics or radiation detection
  • Neuromorphic computing or Spiking Neural Networks
  • Machine learning, AI/ML algorithms, or scientific computing
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or C++.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to document and present research clearly.
• Experience with:

• • Allpix2, GEANT4, detector simulation, or TCAD
  • FPGA toolchains (Xilinx Vitis/Vivado, Intel Quartus, HLS tools)
  • HPC environments or GPU-accelerated computing
  • On-detector firmware or data acquisition systems
• Familiarity with HEP data formats and reconstruction.
• Background in semiconductor sensor physics or microelectronics.

 

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

 

Letters of Recommendation:

Please submit three letters of reference when applying for this position. You can upload these directly to your application or have them sent to