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

University of TennesseeKnoxville Township, IA
$55,000 - $67,000Onsite

About The Position

The Medium Energy Physics group in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in experimental nuclear physics. The successful candidate will contribute to a research program based primarily at Jefferson Lab in Newport News, Virginia, with a focus on Hall C experiments investigating nucleon structure in the nuclear medium and on the research and development of a polarized 3He target for the CLAS12 Hall B spin-physics program. The position will combine a leading role in the preparation, commissioning, operation, and analysis of Hall C experiments with research and development of a polarized 3He target based on Metastability Exchange Optical Pumping (MEOP). The candidate will work closely with faculty, graduate students, and collaborators at UTK and Jefferson Lab and will have opportunities to contribute to additional research activities within the group.

Requirements

  • PhD in experimental nuclear physics, particle physics, or a closely related field completed by the date of hire.
  • Research experience in experimental nuclear or particle physics obtained through doctoral research or equivalent training.
  • Hands-on experience with experimental hardware and instrumentation, including experimental setup, system troubleshooting, construction, and testing.
  • Experience with programming and data analysis for large-scale experiments.
  • Ability to conduct independent research, work effectively in a collaborative environment, communicate scientific results clearly, and contribute to the preparation and operation of complex experiments.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience with polarized-target development or operation is desirable.
  • Experience with electron-scattering experiments and data analysis is a plus.
  • Familiarity with polarization technique, cryogenic operation, or Jefferson Lab experimental operations is desirable.

Responsibilities

  • Take a leading role in the preparation, commissioning, and operation of experiment E12-14-002, followed by analysis and interpretation of the data.
  • Contribute to the design, construction, testing, commissioning, and performance optimization of the polarized 3He target using Metastability Exchange Optical Pumping (MEOP).
  • Mentor and work closely with graduate students participating in experimental and target-development activities.
  • Communicate research results through collaboration meetings, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed scientific publications.

Benefits

  • Find more information on UT Benefits here [https://hr.tennessee.edu/benefits/]
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