CIS Postdoctoral Scientist

SURATech, LLC (Jefferson Lab) • Newport News, VA

3d • $65,600 - $90,300

About The Position

The Center for Injectors and Sources (CIS) delivers high-average-current beams of highly polarized electrons with excellent reliability to CEBAF users. This position focuses on developing high-voltage photoemission electron guns and low-energy electron beam lines, improving ultrahigh and extreme-high vacuum techniques, developing novel photoemission cathodes and sophisticated lasers with radio-frequency time structure, and advancing understanding of depolarization mechanisms in semiconductors. A particular emphasis is characterizing and improving the polarized electron source to provide the beam quality needed for the MOLLER parity-violation experiment.

Working with scientific and technical staff in CIS, the postdoctoral scientist will characterize spin-polarized photocathodes used in high-voltage photo-guns. Much of the work will take place in the group's vacuum laboratory, evaluating photocathode performance with a micro-Mott polarimeter to spectrally characterize quantum efficiency and spin polarization. The role will also involve commissioning equipment and conducting experiments at the Upgraded Injector Test Facility and/or Gun Test Stand to investigate photo-gun technology limitations.

For the MOLLER experiment, the incumbent will evaluate materials and processing techniques for producing polarized beams in a 200 kV photo-gun. This includes developing radio-frequency gain-switched and frequency-doubled drive lasers to provide high-intensity polarized beams with small helicity-correlated beam charge and position differences. The incumbent will also assist with CEBAF photoinjector operations, including maintenance and commissioning during accelerator shutdowns.

This is a two-year term position. The stated good-faith annual pay range is $65,600–$90,300; actual compensation may vary and may be above the range depending on factors including skills, experience, education, certifications, and work location. Relocation assistance is not offered, and SURATech will not sponsor an H1B visa for this position.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, or Electrical Engineering.
• Theoretical and/or experimental expertise in an area of electron emission from materials.
• Ability to communicate clearly orally and in writing.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytic, numeric, and experimental research in polarized electron sources and/or electron polarimetry.
• Design and assemble vacuum systems and generate ultrahigh or extreme-high vacuum.
• Characterize spin-polarized photocathodes using a micro-Mott polarimeter to evaluate spectral quantum efficiency and spin polarization.
• Commission equipment and conduct experiments at the Upgraded Injector Test Facility and/or Gun Test Stand.
• Evaluate materials and processing techniques for producing polarized beams in a 200 kV photo-gun for the MOLLER experiment.
• Develop radio-frequency gain-switched and frequency-doubled drive lasers for the MOLLER experiment.
• Assist with CEBAF photoinjector operations, including maintenance and commissioning activities during accelerator shutdowns.
• Conduct independent and collaborative scientific research.
• Communicate scientific results at meetings, workshops, and/or conferences.
• Document and communicate technical and scientific results in logbooks, technical notes, and/or peer-reviewed journals.
• Present work associated with specific projects at meetings.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision care plans.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Paid time off and leave programs, including paid parental leave, vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• 401(k) plan with a 9% Lab contribution; 100% vested.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work and alternate work schedules.
• Tuition assistance.
• Training and professional development programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree