Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Physics and Astronomy - UTK

University of Tennessee•Knoxville, TN

3d•$60,000 - $68,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Experimental Nuclear Structure Group at the University of Tennessee is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position in the experimental low-energy nuclear physics program. The successful candidate will lead the operations of the new sputtering source for triton beams at the John D. Fox Laboratory, FSU. The candidate will operate and maintain the sputtering source, lead the two-neutron transfer experimental campaign and analysis.

Requirements

PhD in experimental nuclear physics or closely related (e.g. nuclear engineering). Completed by October 2026
An excellent track record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer reviewed journals.
Strong verbal and writing skills.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively with team members, including experimental collaborators.
Familiarity with nuclear reaction experiments and analysis.
Familiarity with operations of ion sources.
Proficiency with CERN’s ROOT analysis suite.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Nice To Haves

Research experience in one-nucleon transfer experiments.
Familiarity with machine learning coding hooks.
Proficiency with nuclear reaction codes such as FRESCO or TALYS.
Proficiency in Monte-Carlo radiation transport codes (MCNP, GEANT4)

Responsibilities

Sustain daily operations at the multi-cathode sputtering source for UT and other laboratory users.
Actively participate in experimental campaigns at FSU utilizing the sputtering source.
Lead the two-neutron transfer reaction campaign on light lithium and beryllium isotopes.
Leverage modern analysis tools and machine learning to analyze the nuclear reaction data.
Collaborate with theorists at UTK and other institutions to interpret the nuclear reaction properties.
Collaborate with other group members and students to leverage their expertise in modern analysis techniques.
Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics in scientific research.