Position Overview:

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (SLAC) is one of the world’s premier research laboratories, providing an internationally leading capability in the form of its accelerator based light sources and its science programs. The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), which is an X-ray free electron laser facility and directorate of SLAC, seeks a Research Associate with a background in structural biology, biophysics, or laser physics to join the LCLS Biological Sciences Department. Members of the Biological Sciences Department are responsible for developing new instrumentation and methods for biophysics experiments at LCLS as well as performing innovative ultrafast experiments using X-ray beams from LCLS, including aspects of novel methods for imaging using the LCLS’s x-ray beam.

The position will develop the method of quantum imaging that take advantage of the unique properties of LCLS and could allow for near atomic resolution imaging at a reduced X-ray dose. In this position, you will: 1) participate in a Research and Development program focused on the overall experimental design of quantum imaging experiments at the LCLS including X-ray optical layout, characterization of X-ray parametric down conversion data, and analysis algorithms for experiments at LCLS, 2) develop a visible parametric down conversion laser setup for theory testing, and 3) operational support at the LCLS facility. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers at SLAC, Stanford University, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and the broader SLAC User community working on simulations and theoretical frameworks of the underlying physics. The successful candidate should be curious, motivated and dedicated. The appointment is available to begin immediately.

SLAC is committed to fostering a work environment that promotes inclusion, diversity, equity and accountability. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply; you do not need to meet all the Preferred Qualifications to be considered.

Note: The Research Associate role is a fixed term staff position. This is a two-year fixed-term appointment with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding. Research Associates are expected to work with a significant degree of independence on one or more specific tasks in support of the research program, frequently interacting with the laboratory’s scientific community.

To be successful in this position you will bring:

• A Ph.D. in physics, biochemistry, engineering, or related field.
• Experience with nonlinear or quantum optics.
• Experience with X-ray data collection.
• Demonstrated experience as evidenced by a publication record commensurate with level of work experience.
• Ability to carry out independent research.
• Strong analytical and experimental skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population.

In addition, desired skills and experience include:

• Experience building, commissioning, and testing scientific hardware and instrumentation.
• Experience with tools for 3D model building, such as SolidWorks.
• Experience with laser experimental design and setups.
• Experience with X-ray detectors.
• Script and program writing using Python.
• User facility operations and research.
• Experience with x-ray scattering techniques.

SLAC employee competencies:

• Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
• Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
• Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
• Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
• Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
• Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
• Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

Physical requirements and working conditions:

• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job. May work extended hours during peak business cycles. The ability to travel to synchrotron and XFEL facilities around the world to perform experiments

Work standards:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1—General Policy and Responsibilities:
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide,
• As an organization that receives federal funding, SLAC and Stanford University have a COVID-19 vaccination requirement that will apply to all university employees, including those working remotely in the United States and applicable subcontractors. surveillance-testing-policy.

• Classification Title: Research Associate - Experimental
• Job code: 0127, Grade: G
• Employment Duration: 2 year Fixed term

The expected pay range for this position is $70,000 to $100,000 per annum. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.