Research Associate-Experimental (Axion Dark Matter)

Description

Position Overview:

The axion dark matter program at SLAC is invested in developing novel techniques, in particular with regard to broadband searches, to efficiently probe the axion parameter space. Conventional resonant cavity haloscopes used for axion searches have a slow scan rate due to relationship between the detector volume and resonant frequency. One possible new technique makes use of active feedback to circumvent this relationship and enable broadband searches for axion dark matter.

SLAC invites applications for a 3-year post-doctoral position focused on the development of axion dark matter R&D for the Axion Dark Matter eXperiment (ADMX) and future axion dark matter and hidden photon haloscope searches.

The candidate will assist in the design and development of new axion detector volumes using RF simulation software with the goal of understanding the axion signal conversion power. Some new detectors will be tested in the context of a receiver change that uses active feedback. Studies of the noise performance of such a receiver will be performed using room-temperature and cryogenic setups. The candidate is expected to help devise new axion search ideas and develop the axion program at SLAC. The candidate will have the opportunity to be involved in the broader axion community at SLAC, including the DM Radio group and cm-wave axion dark matter searches.

We request that the applicant submit a curriculum vitae, research statement summarizing their scientific work to date, and three letters of reference. We also encourage the applicant to explain their commitment to improving the scientific community on a social level by fostering an environment that is welcoming and representative of humankind. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Applications should be submitted by February 28 for guaranteed consideration.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Chelsea Bartram ([email protected]).

The responsibilities of this role are:

• Exploring new techniques for axion detectors and receiver chains, in particular those related to broadband searches.
• Contributing to the overall axion program at SLAC by developing expertise in RF / microwave hardware, digital signal processing, quantum sensing and cryogenics.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students from Stanford and laboratory internship programs.
• Disseminate knowledge through publications, conference presentations and other relevant media.

To be successful in this position, you will need:

• Ph.D. in physics, EE, material sciences or related field.
• Strong background in low mass dark matter detection, quantum sensing, or related field
• Demonstrated ability with programming and software development, especially in python.
• Strong data processing and analysis skills.
• Strong hardware skills, particularly in areas related to microwave electronics, cryogenics and quantum sensing.
• Strong desire to develop expertise in the fields listed above.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to carry out independent research and multi-task.
• Excellent documentation skills and drive to disseminate knowledge through publications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience using RF simulation tools such as HFSS or COMSOL.
• Experience working with low-temperature cryostats.
• Experience working with and understanding of microwave technology and electronics.
• Background in digital signal processing , high-level programming of data acquisition.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion efforts.

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.

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 his or her job.

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 the 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 EHS 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,

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Classification Title: Research Associate-Experimental

Duration: Fixed Term

Job Code: 0127 Grade: G

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.