Electron-Nucleus Scattering Phenomenology Postdoctoral Scholar

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory • Berkeley, CA

4d • $6,643 - $7,145 • Onsite

About The Position

The Nuclear Science Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to work on the development of an inclusive electron-nucleus scattering cross section model with a focus on describing nucleon-nucleon short-range correlations (SRCs). The successful candidate will bridge the gap between precision experimental data and modern theoretical frameworks, transforming nuclear structure and electron scattering calculations into a broadly applicable phenomenological tool for experiments at Jefferson Lab and the future Electron-Ion Collider (EIC). This position is structured as a joint collaborative appointment between the LBNL Relativistic Nuclear Collisions (RNC) experimental group and the Nuclear Theory Group. Candidates from both theoretical and experimental backgrounds who wish to pivot into cross-cutting phenomenology are strongly encouraged to apply. The candidate will have the flexibility to be hosted within either the RNC or Nuclear Theory Group based on their research background, interests, and project needs. This position will also provide opportunities to pursue complementary independent research aligned with the scientific priorities of either program in broad areas of QCD. The RNC leads collider experiments at RHIC and LHC, and fixed target measurements at Jefferson Lab, while the Nuclear Theory Group covers a range of topics connected to nucleon and nuclei structure, heavy ion physics, many body physics, neutrino/astrophysics, and fundamental asymmetries. The local SRC program, led by Shujie Li and John Arrington, focuses on electron scattering experiments at Jefferson Lab including the 2018 tritium program (E12-11-112), the 2022 XEM2 experiment, and the recently C1 approved proposal on next generation tritium SRC measurements (PR12-26-012).

Requirements

• A recent Ph.D. in theoretical or experimental nuclear or particle Physics, or a related field,
• A strong background in either nuclear structure, electron-scattering theory/experiment, or global data analysis,
• Demonstrated expertise in scientific computing and code development,
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment and to communicate research findings effectively,
• Ability to work on site at LBNL, and travel to meetings, workshops and conferences.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate calculations of quasielastic and deep-inelastic scattering processes into a unified framework for modeling electron-nucleus cross-section, and evaluate reaction and nuclear-structure models relevant to SRC kinematics.
• Develop, test, document, and maintain scientific software for modeling, global fitting, uncertainty quantification, and data interpretation.
• Explore applications of the developed framework to current and future measurements.
• Interpret research findings and disseminate results through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, presentations, workshops, and scientific conferences.
• Contribute to an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative research environment consistent with Berkeley Lab’s stewardship values.

Benefits

• Possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.

What This Job Offers

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