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 a