Post-Doctorate Research Associate: Low Background Detection

Key Skills

C++, Data science techniques, Effective communication skills, Environmental, Jupyter Notebook, Leadership Skill, Machine learning techniques, Operations, Presentation skills, Python Programming

Job Description

Responsibilities

Researchers will also have opportunities to work across the Detection Physics group’s portfolio of fundamental and applied science programs, assisting with the cross-pollination of new methods and technologies in radiation detection relevant to both basic research and applied research for national security. This cross-disciplinary, entrepreneurial environment is a strength that the Detection Physics Group has fostered and maintained over multiple decades. Specific areas of focus within the group include:

• Fundamental Physics: Detection Physics staff are engaged in several experimental efforts focused on neutrinos and dark matter, including the next Enriched Xenon Observatory (nEXO), Project 8, Oscura, the Axion Dark Matter eXperiment (ADMX), and the Super Cryogenic Dark Matter Search (SuperCDMS). Researchers may have the opportunity to develop detector components and test new R&D concepts with our local detector test stand as well as contribute to simulations and modeling of radioactive backgrounds and detector signals.
• Quantum Information Science: Researchers are pursuing several experimental efforts to study energy transduction in quantum devices at the intersections between QIS and high-energy and nuclear physics. New hires may have the opportunity to contribute to quantum information science (QIS) research focused on superconducting sensors and low-temperature device physics. The group is also engaged in several experimental efforts to study the interactions between superconducting materials and the environment, particularly ionizing radiation.
• Ultra-Sensitive Nuclear Measurements Program: The Ultra-Sensitive Nuclear Measurements Program (USNMP) stewarded by the Detection Physics Group guides the lifecycle of PNNL research and operations in:
• Ultra-pure materials for radiation detection
• Ultra-sensitive radiation detection systems enabled by these materials
• Analytical and computational techniques to further reduce backgrounds and provide quantitative reporting from ultra-sensitive measurements
• Applications uniquely enabled by these capabilities across National Security, Environmental Science, and Fundamental Physics
• Collection and sample chemistry methods uniquely enabled by these capabilities to address challenging environments

The Ultra-Sensitive Nuclear Measurements Program (USNMP) includes a broad base of supporting capabilities:

• Central capability is the team: staff Nationally and Internationally recognized for USNM science leadership, creativity, and operational excellence
• PNNL Shallow Underground Laboratory
• Cleanroom and clean laboratory spaces dedicated to ultra-low-background R&D and operations around materials, detectors, sampling, and measurements
• Materials assay capabilities providing world-leading sensitivity for radioactive contaminants (U, K, Th, Co, Cs, …)
• Dedicated clean machining and fabrication capabilities for working with ultra-pure materials

Strong communication and presentation skills are required. Candidates should be self-motivated and possess the interpersonal skills necessary to work with others in a team environment. Candidates with a demonstrated ability to problem solve and publish technical research outcomes are highly desired.

Previous technical experience that may include one or more of the following:

• Ultra-pure materials for radiation detection: includes materials that would be incorporated into detectors such as radiopure electroformed copper as well geologic argon and gas separations and sample processing
• Gamma-spectrometry systems: setup, operation and analysis of data, preferably high-purity germanium detectors
• Noble gas detectors (gas proportional counters and cryogenic noble liquid scintillators): understand the challenges to low-background techniques associated with these technologies
• Low-temperature systems: operation and instrumentation of cryogenic systems, including dilution refrigerators and vacuum systems
• Low-noise sensors: design of low-noise detector systems, with a strong background in characterization of environmental noise factors
• Cleanroom operations: experience with cleanroom protocols and working in low-background environments
• Software tools: prior experience with simulation, data analysis and coding packages such as Geant4, ROOT, C++, Python, Jupyter, or machine leaning techniques

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Relevant fields of study include physics, engineering (nuclear, mechanical, electrical), material science, chemistry, mathematics, data science or related field.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not applicable.

Additional Information

Candidates must have the ability to obtain and maintain a future security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, flexible work schedules and telework options. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.

Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment Opportunity

Our laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.