Laser System Assistant Scientist
Rochester, NY
Responsibilities
Position Description:
The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE, www.lle.rochester.edu) at the University of Rochester is seeking a Ph.D.-level individual in Optics, Physics, or Engineering to join the Laser System Science team. LLE is a unique national resource featuring the Omega laser facility, a premier high-energy laser user facility conducting experiments in Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF), High Energy Density Physics (HEDP) and basic science. The Omega facility is home to the OMEGA and OMEGA EP lasers. OMEGA is a 60-beam solid-state laser system capable of delivering 30-kJ, nanosecond UV pulses to a target for fusion experiments. Omega EP is a short-pulse laser system capable of delivering pulses of up to 1-PW power (700J in 700fs). LLE is also developing novel high-energy laser systems, including ultrabroadband and ultra-intense lasers. The Laser System Science team is charged with technical and operational oversight of the OMEGA and OMEGA EP lasers and also contributes to development of the next generation of high-energy and high-power laser systems.
Responsibilities:
Analyze large sets of laser diagnostic data to validate, calibrate, and refine laser system models, track long-term laser performance, and identify developing issues.
Assist in overseeing the safe, efficient operation of the Omega laser facility to satisfy the demands of the user base while ensuring protection of the laser systems.
Develop and maintain laser system models and laser system configuration tools. Perform complex laser modeling to support upgrades or development of new laser systems.
Characterize laser system performance, including developing and maintaining laser diagnostics.
Lead experimental campaigns on the lasers with the goals of improving understanding and enhancing laser system or diagnostic performance.
Work with an interdisciplinary team to rapidly troubleshoot system performance issues in order to maximize facility availability and effectiveness.
Lead commissioning of upgrades to the laser systems.
Conduct applied research relevant to the Omega laser and future high-energy lasers; communicate research results in scientific journals and conference presentations.
Morning and evening shift work is required.
Qualifications:
A Ph.D. in Optics, Physics, or a relevant engineering field is required, with research in lasers or laser-based optical systems (especially solid-state lasers and amplifiers) desired.
Ability to develop computer-based data analysis tools in MATLAB or Python (experience mining data from databases is a plus).
Proficiency in data visualization and analyzing complex and often noisy data sets to spot historical trends and identify correlations.
Understanding of optical physics and optical systems (laser systems and/or nonlinear optics highly desired).
Ability to support multiple projects and priorities, and ability to troubleshoot laser performance issues in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to interact with scientists, engineers, technicians, and students.
Demonstrated ability to be effective in a team environment.
Ability to obtain a security clearance.
In addition to applying online, qualified applicants should submit a dossier that includes a cover letter outlining how the applicant sees himself/herself contributing to the research project, a curriculum vitae and a list of publications. The applicant should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to LLE. All materials should be sent to the attention of:
Steven Stagnitto, Administrative Director
Laboratory for Laser Energetics
250 East River Road
Rochester, NY 14623-1299
Email: steven.stagnitto@rochester.edu
Fax: 585-276-2420
The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations.
How To Apply
All applicants must apply online.
EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled
Location: Laser Lab & COI
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Opening: Full Time 40 hours Grade 000 LLE-Laboratory for Laser Energ