Careers @ MSU

Working/Functional Title

SECAR Instrumentation Scientist

Position Summary

Michigan State University operates FRIB as a user facility for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-SC), supporting the mission of the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics.

As one of 28 DOE-SC user facilities, FRIB provides researchers with one of the most advanced tools of modern science to study rare isotopes, or short-lived nuclei not normally found on Earth. FRIB hosts what is designed to be the most powerful heavy-ion accelerator, enabling scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications for society, including in medicine, homeland security, and industry. 

User facility operation is supported by the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics as one of 28 DOE-SC user facilities. MSU’s nuclear physics graduate program is a top-ranked program nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report.

This position affords an exciting opportunity to become part of the world-class FRIB Laboratory that enables unique discovery opportunities in nuclear science.

Position Overview

The SECAR Instrumentation Scientist will support and lead research in experimental nuclear science with experimental instrumentation at FRIB.

Major Position Responsibilities

• Provide user support for instrumentation at FRIB for experiments with rare isotope beams by:
  • Answering technical questions for users during the preparation of experiment proposals
  • Providing software packages necessary for using data acquisition and data analysis
  • Ensuring the proper functioning of the instrumentation as specified in the standard configuration
  • Performing device-setting changes during the experiment as required by the experimenters.
  • Providing support during the experiment to ensure the proper functioning of the device
  • Assisting users in inspecting and understanding online data.
  • Assisting users during the off-line analysis phase
  • Operating assigned instrumentation safely and reliably with high availability
• Instrument support:
  • Contribute to maintenance and technical improvements of the instrumentation and supporting systems
  • Take on an active role in the development of new tools (detectors, software, electronics…) to improve the overall performance of instrumentation
  • Assist with defining and documenting standard maintenance and operating procedures
  • Support the PAC
• Conduct scientific research related to nuclear physics and/or instrumentation and related technologies, and publish scientific results 
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of magnetic spectrometers, associated beam diagnostics, detector systems, and beam optics
• Knowledge and operational experience with larger setups in experimental devices, including detector maintenance and data acquisition
• Ability to problem-solve and demonstrate sound critical thinking skills
• Ability to work independently, within a team, and in an extensive collaboration
• Knowledge of industry-safe work practices in the field
• Knowledge of vacuum technology and related instrumentation
• Excellent communication skills to communicate effectively and credibly, both verbally and in writing with all audiences
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suites

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Nuclear Physics or a related field

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Nuclear Physics, or a related field
• Three years of demonstrated or comparable experience in the use of either magnetic spectrometers, nuclear physics detectors systems, associated beam diagnostics, and beam optics

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with magnetic spectrometers and/or ~MeV/u scale energy beam diagnostics devices
• Experience implementing technical developments for nuclear science experiments
• Research experience in experimental nuclear science

Required Application Materials

• CV
• Cover Letter
• Contact information for three references

Special Instructions

Questions regarding the position can be directed to Sarah Powell (powells@frib.msu.edu)

Review of Applications Begins On

07/12/2023

Website

www.frib.msu.edu

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.