LDRD Compact Positron Source Research Associate #6139

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is seeking a Research Associate with a proven track record in Positron Trap Science and Technology and/or Low-Energy Beam Physics.

In this position, you will be supporting a research effort managed by the Accelerator Directorate and the Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) program. You will contribute to the design and construction of a positron trap to deliver low emittance positron beams for Accelerator R&D and Materials Science applications. The design concept is detailed in a recent publication.

As part of this project, you will adapt designs of positron traps for pulsed linac sources using the SLAC XTA Beamline. You will work with the high-power electronics group on design and optimization of pulse compression and acceleration systems to reduce the length of the positron bunch after it exits the trap. This work entails modeling of beam transport lines including space charge effects.

Please contact Spencer Gessner sgess@slac.stanford.edu if you have questions about the position.

Your specific duties include:

Design of positron traps for efficient capture from a pulsed linac source. Design of positron extraction, compression and acceleration systems. Modeling of the compact positron source with particle tracking codes. Construction of the source at the XTA beamline at SLAC's NLCTA facility. Note: The Research Associate role is a fixed term staff position. Appointment duration is 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding.

Applicants must provide evidence of either a recently completed PhD degree or confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Applicants should also include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae which includes a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application.

To be successful in this position you will bring:

Ph.D. in physical sciences or engineering. Experience with positron trap systems or low-energy beamlines, including injector systems. Experience with programming (preferably Python or Matlab) Ability to carry out independent and collaborative research in a diverse research team. Effective written and verbal communication skills. good interpersonal skills are essential.