Computational Beamline Scientist - Condensed Phase Chemistry

Computational Beamline Scientist - Condensed Phase Chemistry

Job ID

6463

Location

SLAC - Menlo Park, CA

Full-Time

Temporary

**SLAC Job Postings**

**Position Overview:**

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is seeking an Associate Staff Scientist to join the Chemical Sciences Department within the Science, Research and Development (SRD) Division at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS). LCLS has a long track record in combining hard X-ray spectroscopy and scattering to simultaneously follow ultrafast electronic and nuclear structure changes in photochemically and photocatalytically active molecular systems in solution. The upcoming high-repetition rate LCLS-II-HE upgrade will enhance the available X-ray flux by orders of magnitude and will enable the transition from studying model systems towards in operando study of real-world photocatalytic systems. The enhanced repetition rate will also pose new challenges for obtaining, storing, and analyzing experimental data.

To meet these challenges and opportunities, LCLS seeks candidates for the new role of a computational beamline scientist. The candidate is expected to join both the condensed phase chemistry team, which currently performs and supports research at the XCS instrument, and the LCLS data team, which supports data visualization, storage, and analysis. The candidate will support operations at the XCS instrument and work with the data team in developing data visualization and analysis frameworks for the LCLS-II-HE upgrade. Additionally, they will actively participate in the design and deployment of a future dedicated condensed phase chemistry endstation. Candidates with a strong background in ultrafast spectroscopy and/or solution phase X-ray scattering are specifically encouraged to apply. It is expected the candidate will develop a collaborative and strong user support framework within the XCS team for optimal use of the facility. The candidate is expected to engage in scientific research, and help to develop new scientific directions.

**Note** : This position is posted at the Associate Staff Scientist level. The Associate Scientist position is a 3-to-5-year fixed term position for a recent graduate or post-doctoral fellow and is the entry level in the Staff Scientist career path. The Associate Scientist position is scheduled to be assessed after the 3 to 5-year period with the possibility of appointment to the Staff Scientist level.

Applicants should include a cover letter, a statement of research including a summary of accomplishments, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application.

**Your specific responsibilities include:**

+ Participate in planning and performing forefront experiments in ultrafast X-ray science using the LCLS.

+ Engage in the design and deployment of data analysis frameworks

+ Participate in science, research and development within the Chemical Science Department at LCLS.

+ Support expansion of the capabilities of LCLS.

+ Collaborate with other SRD scientists and other Divisions within LCLS.

+ Disseminate research results through peer reviewed publications and presentations at scientific meetings.

**What we expect you to bring:**

+ Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, or related fields and 2 years of research experience in ultrafast, optical, and X-ray science.

+ Experience developing and delivering research activities, including progress reports, proposals, requirements documentation, and presentations to diverse stakeholders.

+ Strong analytical and computation skills.

+ Experience supporting a complex user facility and/or R&D environment.

+ Research record as evidenced by a publication record commensurate with level of work experience.

+ Background in synchrotron radiation or Free-Electron Laser techniques and instrumentation, with preference for experience in solution phase soft X-ray spectroscopy or a closely related area, plus experience in instrumentation development, sample delivery, data analysis and time-resolved methods.

+ Ability to develop, design and test new scientific instrumentation and data analysis frameworks.

+ Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to multi-task and complete assignments.

+ Effective communication and writing skills to prepare and present technical and scientific documentation.

+ Ability to carry out independent research, collaborate closely with colleagues conducting experimental research, and participate in the writing of scientific proposals to fund research.

+ Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

+ Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population.

**In addition, preferred requirements include:**

+ Solution phase x-ray methods, at synchrotrons and/or XFELs.

+ Processing and analysis of large data sets.

+ X-ray instrumentation development and operation

+ Time-resolved methods

**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.

+ Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work.

**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 1General 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,

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+ Classification Title: Associate Scientist

+ Grade: K Job code: 1092

+ Duration:3-year fixed term

The expected pay range for this position is $118,000 - $175,000. 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.

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. All staff at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory must be able to demonstrate the legal right to work in the United States. SLAC is an E-Verify employer.