Neutron Symmetries - R&D Associate

Overview: 

We are seeking an exceptional experimental R&D Associate who will focus on experimental design, execution, analysis, and leadership for neutron physics experiments at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This full-time position resides in the Neutron Symmetries group in the Physics Division, Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

The Neutron Symmetries group at ORNL conducts a broad research program in nuclear, particle, and astrophysics with emphasis on fundamental interactions ​and symmetries of nature, by conducting forefront research on understanding  the fundamental properties of neutrons and their interactions. The group is currently commissioning the Nab experiment at the Fundamental Neutron Physics Beamline (FnPB) at the Spallation Neutron Source, which will precisely characterize neutron beta decay with unprecedented precision.  FnPB will also be the home of the world's most ambitious search for the neutron's electric dipole moment (EDM), the nEDM@SNS experiment.  

The candidate will work in a multidisciplinary environment and is expected to participate in and lead the scientific effort to create, design, build, commission, execute, and analyze fundamental physics research experiments.  As an R&D Associate Staff Member, you will be expected to be fully engaged with all group experimental activities, including designing the next generation of fundamental neutron physics experiments.

Home to some of the world’s premier scientific facilities, ORNL is a great place to work with eminent colleagues and to build an extraordinary career. The research program of the Physics Division also includes studies of neutrinos and their properties, studies of nuclear structure and astrophyiscs as well as relativistic heavy ion research and applied work.

As part of our research team, you will work closely with a focused group of scientists, engineers, and other technicians on challenging, fast-paced technical projects at the forefront of the nation’s neutron physics program.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Provide scientific leadership and experimental effort for neutron physics experiments
• Take a leading role in defining the long-term program of neutron-based physics at ORNL, leveraging the current and upgraded world-class user facilities, such as the Second Target Station and the Upgrade of the High Flux Isotope Reactor
• Work with others to maintain a high level of scientific productivity
• Assist and mentor graduate and undergraduate students, post-docs, and staff
• Present and publish scientific results in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD Degree in physics, engineering, or related discipline and at least one year of post-PhD experience
• Experience in experimental nuclear physics or a closely related field

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD or post-doctoral experience in experimental physics of fundamental symmetries, especially neutron experiments
• Post-doctoral and/or research staff experimental experience
• Experience with cryogenic systems and experiments
• Experience with numerical simulation and data analysis of nuclear or particle physics experiments and interpretation of the results
• Experience in data acquisition and hosting/communicating with servers
• Familiarity with at least one of the following:  C, C++, Python, Julia, MATLAB, Mathematica, GEANT 4, Root, or similar analysis and simulation packages
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to acquire new knowledge and learn new skills, along with superior interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to work with autonomy and demonstration of participation and leadership in a collaborative, team environment
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities for self and team to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

Special Requirements:

Three letters of reference are required and can be uploaded to your profile or emailed directly to PSDrecruit@ornl.gov.  Please include the title of the position in the subject line.

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.