Scientist, Research Scientist, Physics

University of Rochester:
Office of the Provost:
Academic Center: LLE-Laboratory for Laser Energ

** Salary Range or Pay Grade*
* $100,000-$140,000 Annually

** Description*
* The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is seeking candidates for the position of Scientist in the Omega Experiments Group within the Experimental Division to lead experiments in inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and related physics on OMEGA, OMEGA EP, National Ignition Facility (NIF), and future laser facilities. Laser Direct Drive (LDD) implosions of DT cryogenic targets and focused physics experiments to establish a foundation for the pursuit of high-yield LDD using future broad bandwidth laser drivers, as well as nuclear, hydrodynamic, high-energy-density physics (HEDP) and magnetized plasma physics, are among the Omega Experiments Group's key research thrusts supporting the long-standing goal of inertial confinement fusion research in the United States to achieve a 1-GJ yield in a next-generation facility.

The successful candidate will perform research and development for the Omega Laser Facility and future, planned experimental facilities (e.g., the OMEGA-Next facility for ICF with broad bandwidth laser drivers, the Next-Generation HED facility), and lead OMEGA DT cryogenic implosion experiments as a Principal Investigator.  The research scope of this position encompasses the research, development, and use of x-ray and/or nuclear diagnostics to understand the behavior of extreme states of matter created on Omega for the ICF and HEDP research fields and to plan target physics experiments for future laser facilities under development at LLE.  

The position requires a candidate with expertise in x-ray and/or nuclear diagnostics who can lead technical, engineering, and scientific staff in the development, deployment, and use of novel ICF and HEDP diagnostics on Omega, and work with theoretical and computational experts to design target physics experiments and interpret the experimental results.  The successful candidate will interact routinely with subject matter experts worldwide in ICF and HEDP research communities.

** Essential

Job Responsibilities *
* + Lead ICF and related physics campaigns on the Omega Laser Facility and/or NIF

+ Develop advanced measurement techniques to diagnose ICF implosions and related experimental platforms using state-of-the-art x-ray and nuclear diagnostics

+ Collaborate with theoretical and computational experts to design ICF and HEDP target physics experiments and to achieve a physical understanding of experimental results

+ Work with experts in target fabrication and tritium science to field mesoscopic, cryogenic targets on the Omega Laser Facility to achieve experimental objectives

+ Collaborate with the world's leading experts in HEDP and ICF research fields on the Omega Laser Facility and NIF by defining x-ray and nuclear diagnostic configurations, collecting experimental data, and interpreting the experimental results

+ Perform research and development for the future, planned experimental facilities at LLE (e.g., OMEGA-Next facility) and the NNSA complex

** Qualifications*
* + PhD degree in Experimental Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field with a record of publications; research background in experimental ICF or HEDP is preferred

+ Knowledge of x-ray detection methods, including imaging and spectroscopy, and/or nuclear diagnostic techniques, and hands-on experience with diagnostic innovation and implementing novel diagnostic capabilities

+ Advanced computational skills for designing experiments and diagnostics and analyzing data, including experience working with searchable databases

+ Successful track record of working with experts in modeling and simulations to achieve a physical understanding of experimental results

+ Interpersonal skills suitable for working in a team-based, collaborative environment

+ Strong written, communication, and organizational skills to disseminate scientific results through presentations at workshops and conferences and peer-reviewed publications

The successful candidate will join the Omega Experiments group as a Scientist or at a rank commensurate with experience.

** Application Instructions*
* + a cover letter;

+ a curriculum vitae and a list of publications;

+ at least two letters of recommendation

** SALARY RANGE: $100,000 to $140,000 Annually*
* The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates are set within the job's compensation range, and determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

** Equal Employment Opportunity Statement*
* EOE, including disability/protected veterans

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