Research Associate - Diagnostics

The Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) is a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-SC) user facility for nuclear science. Hosting the most powerful heavy-ion accelerator, FRIB will provide intense beams of rare isotopes (that is, short-lived nuclei not normally found on Earth). FRIB will enable scientists to make discoveries about the properties of these rare isotopes in order to better understand the physics of atomic nuclei, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications of rare isotopes benefitting society.

FRIB will commence scientific user operation in May of 2022. FRIB is funded by DOE-SC, Michigan State University (MSU), and the State of Michigan, with user facility operation supported by the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics. Since 2010, MSU’s nuclear physics graduate program is ranked No. 1 in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of graduate programs.

This position affords an exciting opportunity to become part of the world-class FRIB Laboratory that will enable unique discovery opportunities in nuclear science.

Position overview

FRIB is seeking to fill a position of Research Associate.

In support of the commissioning and operation of the FRIB accelerator facility and beam delivery to experimental facilities, the FRIB Beam Instrumentation and Measurements Department has an immediate opening for a Diagnostics Post-Doctoral Research Fellow. The duration of the position will be two years with a possible one-year extension.

This position will support development, commissioning, and operations of intense beam diagnostics for the high-intensity, heavy-ion superconducting linac, front end and ion source, transport beamlines, target and beam dump, and rare isotope fragment separator. Specific areas of interest will concentrate on beam stability and loss measurements, fast machine protection, and beam-target interactions.

Major position responsibilities

Development of diagnostic system specifications and interfaces
Perform calculations, benchtop and beamline testing to confirm system performance
Coordination of diagnostic system development and testing with FRIB operations
Participate and lead commissioning of new diagnostic systems
Document designs and test results, including presentations and publications

Qualifications

Required

Recent (within last 5 years) Doctorate in experimental physics, electrical engineering, nuclear engineering or physical sciences

Experience (2+ years) in nuclear or accelerator physics experimental design and execution
Strong interpersonal skills with ability to work well with diverse people of various cultural backgrounds
Ability to work under pressure, pay close attention to detail, prioritize work, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality
Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Excellent customer service skills and professionalism
Ability to collaborate and consult with researchers on instrumentation needs
Ability to identify problems, analyze information and implement solutions with sound judgment
Ability to analyze and interpret University and facility policies and procedures for safety and security
Ability to lift and carry 10-25 pounds frequently and 40 pounds occasionally
Ability to perform shift work periodically
Ability to work with export-controlled technologies

Desired

2+ years experience with designing nuclear instrumentation or particle accelerator diagnostics
2+ years experience with software and hardware for instrument design and calibration
2+ years experience with software and hardware methodologies for instrument control, data acquisition, and accelerator or experiment performance optimization
2+ years experience with large scale scientific or industrial control systems
2+ years experience with programming and scripting languages
An understanding of advanced mathematical and scientific software applications as evidenced through educational preparation or professional use

Benefits

MSU employees receive excellent benefits including health/dental plans, a generous retirement plan, and educational assistance.

How to apply

For immediate consideration, please visit careers.msu.edu and search for posting number 762906 and follow the application process.

MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans and persons with disabilities.

About FRIB and MSU, and the East Lansing community

FRIB will enable scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes supporting discoveries about the physics of atomic nuclei, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications of rare isotopes to benefit society.

MSU is located on one of the largest university campuses in the U.S. on 5,300 tree-filled acres. MSU has 17 degree-granting colleges and is a center for academic and research activities as well as the arts and athletics. The greater Lansing area has a population of more than 460,000 and offers lovely suburban areas, urban living opportunities as well as easy-to-get-to rural areas. A symphony orchestra, excellent health care, many community and professional theatres, rivers, lakes, outdoor festivals, close access to large cities and Lake Michigan make for a near-perfect living environment.

Livability.com named Lansing as the most affordable city on its 2018 Best Affordable Places to Live list and one of the 2020 Top 100 Best Places to Live. East Lansing is one of the Best Places to Live according to the 2019 ranking by Livability.com. Neighboring city Okemos is No. 1 in the Niche.com 2020 Best Places to Live in Michigan ranking.

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal opportunity employer and is committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. The university and FRIB encourage applications or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.

MSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer.