Scientist FRIB​/NSCL

Michigan State University (MSU) operates the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) as a user facility for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE‑SC), supporting the mission of the DOE‑SC Office of Nuclear Physics. FRIB provides researchers with one of the most advanced tools of modern science to study rare isotopes, or short‑lived nuclei not normally found on Earth.

Hosting what is designed to be the most powerful heavy‑ion accelerator, FRIB enables scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications for society, including in medicine, homeland security, and industry. User facility operation is supported by the DOE‑SC Office of Nuclear Physics as one of 28 DOE‑SC user facilities. MSU’s nuclear physics graduate program is a top‑ranked program nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report.

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

The Accelerator Physicist will contribute to the development and operation of the FRIB accelerators by undertaking projects and activities to improve facility performance as measured by beam quality, intensity, power, purity, and variety. These activities will focus on enhancing the performance of FRIB and providing planned availability of primary beams on target and secondary beams for experiments, primarily by applying AI/ML techniques.

• Develop new techniques, software, and hardware to improve the performance of the driver‑ and re‑accelerators based on AI/ML methods
• Assist with the design, prototype, development, implementation, and maintenance of high‑level physics applications based on AI/ML techniques
• Validate the accuracy and reliability of the physics applications and algorithms
• Create detailed documentation for the developed applications, including user guides and technical specifications
• Train users and operators on how to use the new tools and applications effectively
• Continuously monitor the performance of the re‑accelerator and adjust applications as needed
• Conceive and execute studies of beam dynamics and electrodynamics using major programming languages (C++, Python) and computer programs
• Organize the data flow for optimal use with AI/ML applications
• Keep FRIB physics application environment up to date by collaborating with EPICS community
• Complete other duties as assigned within the scope of the role

• Highly skilled in developing software for high‑level physics applications using C++ and Python
• Advanced knowledge of software development practices and techniques for computational and data‑intensive science problems
• Knowledge and skillful ability with heavy‑ion beam diagnostic equipment
• Skills and ability to gather, analyze, and present findings by communicating effectively (both orally and written)
• Ability to conduct interdisciplinary research combining physical sciences/engineering and computing
• Skillful ability to collaborate and work in a team environment
• Ability to analyze and resolve technical problems in a timely manner
• Ability to effectively work in a team
• Excellent communication skills to communicate effectively and credibly verbally and in writing with all audiences
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suites

Doctorate – Physics or computer science

• A Ph.D. in physics or computer science, or related field
• At least one year of experience in accelerator physics and technology or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Published peer reviewed papers on AI/ML applications to support accelerator design and operation

• Experience in the development of computer programs on Python
• Experience with software development practices and techniques for computational and data‑intensive science problems, including AI/ML tools
• Experience with distributed accelerator control systems and their underlying concepts

• CV
• Contact information for at least three references

Not Applicable

Full‑time

Science

Research and Software Development