Assistant Physicist - Term

Overview

The Accelerator Systems Division (ASD) of the Advanced Photon Source (APS) at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a term‑appointed, project‑funded Assistant Physicist position in the Accelerator Operations and Physics Group. This role focuses on exploring new opportunities at the APS injection complex enabled by a state‑of‑the‑art radio frequency photoinjector.

• Develop advanced timing and synchronization systems to enable direct injection of photoemitted bunches from the linac to the Booster.
• Collaborate with RF, timing, and controls teams to deploy low‑noise distribution, phase references, and phase‑stable triggers.
• Model and optimize beam dynamics for high‑brightness and high‑charge operation; generate physics requirements for the direct‑injection timing system via numerical simulations.
• Design and implement spatiotemporal shaping of the photocathode drive laser to optimize the photoinjector beam for high‑brightness and high‑charge operating modes.
• Plan and perform experimental measurements of photoinjector beams; characterize electron bunches using advanced beam diagnostics and translate results into operational improvements.
• Document methods and results; present at internal meetings and external conferences; publish in refereed journals and proceedings.

• Background in timing and synchronization for accelerators (RF reference distribution, phase noise/jitter characterization, timing system integration).
• Hands‑on experience with ultrafast lasers and photocathode drive‑laser systems; familiarity with spatial and temporal pulse‑shaping concepts.
• Proficiency with beam‑dynamics simulation and optimization tools (e.g., ELEGANT, MAD‑X, GPT, ASTRA, IMPACT).
• Experience with accelerator diagnostics and data analysis for emittance, bunch length, and longitudinal/transverse phase space.
• Familiarity with EPICS‑based controls in a Linux environment.
• Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
• Interpersonal skills, oral and written communication skills, and ability to interact with people at all levels both within and outside the laboratory.
• Ph.D. or equivalent (Bachelors and 5+ years' experience, Masters and 3+ years' experience, or PhD and 0+ years' experience). The required degree may be held in accelerator physics or a related field.

• Experience implementing spatiotemporal pulse shaping (e.g., programmable dispersion, phase/amplitude modulation, adaptive optimization).
• Prior work on linac‑to‑ring injection schemes and bunch‑to‑bucket timing.
• Practical knowledge of RF systems, low‑level RF, cavity phasing, and synchronization of laser/RF systems.

Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a cover letter, and a statement of research accomplishments and interests.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment and is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.