Postdoctoral Research Associate - Quantum X-ray Imaging

Brookhaven National Laboratory • Upton, NY

103d • $78,000 - $100,000

About The Position

The Coherent Hard X-ray (CHX, 11-ID) beamline at NSLS-II seeks a postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in computational imaging, data science, or scientific computing. This position will focus on developing advanced image reconstruction methods, signal processing techniques, and data analysis pipelines for novel X-ray imaging modalities, including ghost imaging, quantum-enhanced imaging, and other correlation-based methods. As part of a DOE-BER-funded effort to develop a quantum-enhanced X-ray microscope for low-dose biological imaging, the successful candidate will work closely with experimental physicists, biologists, and data scientists. The emphasis will be on enabling high-fidelity image reconstructions from sparse and noisy data, leveraging state-of-the-art methods in compressed sensing, optimization, and machine learning.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in optical or X-ray experiments, or related experimental photon science.
• Proficiency in scientific programming for experimental control or data analysis.
• Ability to work independently in a laboratory setting and collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with correlated photon techniques such as ghost imaging, intensity interferometry, or parametric down-conversion.
• Strong understanding of light-matter interaction and detection techniques (e.g., photon counting, time-resolved detection).
• Familiarity with synchrotron or XFEL beamline environments and relevant instrumentation.
• Experience with time-resolved or single-photon detectors.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experimental studies using structured, correlated, or quantum light to probe samples with reduced dose.
• Carry out X-ray imaging experiments using time-resolved detectors and beam-splitting or structured illumination setups.
• Assist in the commissioning and operation of experimental hardware such as beam splitters, nonlinear crystals, scintillators, and specialized detectors.
• Develop and adapt experimental protocols for both absorption-based (radiographic) and scattering-based imaging.
• Collaborate with beamline staff, biologists, and data scientists to plan and execute interdisciplinary experimental campaigns.
• Maintain and contribute to analysis software and simulation tools for experimental planning and data reduction.

Benefits

• Comprehensive employee benefits program.
• Competitive compensation.
• Supportive work environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees