Job Information
Washington State University Laser/Optical Physicist in Pullman, Washington
Laser/Optical Physicist Available Title(s): 327-NN_FACULTY - Staff Scientist Business Title: Laser/Optical Physicist Employee Type: Faculty (+) (Fixed Term) Time Type: Full time Position Term: 12 Month Position Details: Summary of Duties: The successful candidate should enjoy hands-on work and problem solving in a fast-paced, research environment and will work with a team of physicists responsible for the operation and maintenance of the DCS 100J laser System to ensure optimal performance, develop new capabilities, and conduct state-of-the-art scientific experiments on behalf of users. Additionally, many of the experiments performed at the DCS utilize a wide variety of lasers that are integral to characterizing/understanding the shock compressed state of materials and wide array of optical detection and analysis approaches are utilized. While the primary responsibility of this position will be for the 100J laser, the successful candidate will also be expected to operate and maintain additional optical systems, as needed for a broad range of user experiments. • Participate in the operation of the 100-Joule laser for laser-shock research activities, contribute to the design and conduct of laser-shock experiments, and work with scientific users. This also includes quantifying and archiving the laser performance for each shot. • Working with other laser experts, document and maintain safe operating procedures related to the laser and its control areas at the DCS. • Participate in the design, development, and use of optical equipment and systems, for laser-interferometry measurements and other laser-based diagnostics. • Work with the DCS users to prepare for experiments in advance. This includes providing guidelines for experimental design, as well as personnel safety and equipment operating procedures. • Contribute effectively to all aspects of the various research projects including assistance to DCS users; optimal and safe operations of the experimental facilities; ensure availability of experimental components, equipment and supplies; enhancement of experimental capabilities; and working effectively in a team setting to advance the DCS research mission. • Independently define and complete experimental projects and tasks; conduct and analyze research experiments and prepare reports and publications as appropriate. Required Qualifications: • A Ph.D. degree in Physics or a related field with a strong background in lasers and optics. • Demonstrated strong hands-on ability with the design and optimization of nonlinear optical systems and associated diagnostic equipment. • Strong interest in being involved in all aspects of DCS user experiments. • Good familiarity with hardware and software required to support user experiments on a large-scale laser. • Good computer skills, including experience with programs for instrument control and analysis, such as LabView and Matlab. Experience with optical design software is useful but not required (e.g. Zemax). • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. • Ability to effectively work independently and in a team environment, as needed. • Personal attributes should include critical thinking, good judgment, clear sense of purpose, attention to detail, and accountability. • Must be able to obtain a badge at U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratories to gain access to restricted areas. Additional Information: Area/College: College of Arts and Sciences Department Name: Institute for Shock Physics / Dynamic Compression Sector City, State, Zip: Lemont, IL 60439 Department Link: https://dcs-aps.wsu.edu/ Annual Salary: $85,000 - $130,000 In accordance with https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=49.58.110 the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Indi