Job Information
Washington State University X-Ray Beamline Scientist in Pullman, Washington
X-Ray Beamline Scientist Available Title(s): 305-NN_FACULTY - Research Associate Business Title: X-Ray Beamline Scientist Employee Type: Faculty (+) (Fixed Term) Time Type: Full time Position Term: 12 Month Position Details: The Opportunity: We are seeking a strongly self-motivated, talented experimentalist to support research activities, working with scientists and engineers at a first-of-a-kind experimental user facility: The Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS) at the Advanced Photon Source (APS), Argonne National Laboratory (ANL). The ideal candidate should have a strong background in Condensed Matter Physics and enjoy hands-on work and problem solving in a fast-paced, research environment. Representative Responsibilities • Support and maintain the DCS x-ray beamline components including vacuum systems, large Kirkpatrick-Baez (KB) focusing mirror systems, and x-ray beam choppers and shutters. • Design and implement experimental components and custom control systems used on the x-ray beamline and in the experimental end stations with a focus on developing efficient automation and data acquisition/analysis software. • Initiate and participate in research activities including new types of x-ray measurements and analyses to advance the DCS scientific objectives. • Interacting with users to conduct time-resolved dynamic compression experiments using x-ray techniques, such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), phase-contrast Imaging (PCI), and small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS/WAX). This includes setting up and characterizing the x-ray beam for users. • Contribute effectively to all aspects of the research projects including assistance to DCS users; maintenance of the experimental facilities; ordering experimental components, equipment, and supplies; and working effectively in a team setting. • Independently define and complete experimental projects and tasks. Required Qualifications Strong hands-on experimental background and skills relevant to the position responsibilities are essential. The required professional qualifications and personal attributes are: • A Ph.D. degree in Physics or a related field with a strong experimental background in condensed matter physics. • Strong hands-on ability with design and fabrication of instruments and experimental components. • Considerable skill and knowledge of hardware and software required for photonics-based (x-ray and optical) experiments • Experience with one or more x-ray measurement techniques such as diffraction, spectroscopy, or imaging. • Advanced computational skills, including computer programming for instrument control and analysis, such as LabView, EPICS, Python, and/or MATLAB. • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, necessary to interact with team members and users to effectively present research objectives and documentation. • Personal attributes should include critical thinking, good judgment, attention to detail, ability to work effectively in a team, positive attitude, and accountability. • Must be able to obtain a badge at U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratories to gain access to restricted areas. Preferred Qualifications • Work experience at a synchrotron. • Experience working with ultra-high vacuum systems and optical components. • Experience in working with custom control systems including FPGAs. Additional Information: Area/College: College of Arts and Sciences Department Name: Institute for Shock Physics / Dynamic Compression Sector City, State, Zip: Lemont, IL 60439 Department Link: https://dcs-aps.wsu.edu/ Annual Salary: $85,000 - $110,000 | In accordance with https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement wi