Researcher in Physics; Laser-Based Particle Acceleration - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research at the Division of Atomic Physics is centred on different applications of optics and lasers, including materials science, attosecond physics, high-intensity laser-plasma physics, quantum information, and biophotonics. The Division operates the Lund High-Power Laser Facility, including a state-of-the-art 10 Hz multi-terawatt laser system. It is a central part of a major interdisciplinary research environment within the Lund University, the Lund Laser Centre, LLC. The division is also heavily involved in undergraduate education, especially within the "Photonics programme".

Work duties
The subject is laser-based electron acceleration and x-ray generation. The research concerns experimental fundamental studies and applications of compact laser-plasma wakefield accelerators and associated betatron x-ray sources. For this purpose, the interactions between intense laser pulses and plasma are studied using optical, x-ray and particle diagnostic techniques. The work aims to obtain high-quality and tunable particle- and x-ray beams, but also to demonstrate the applications of laser-plasma accelerators for time-resolved studies of ultrafast processes.

The main duty is to conduct research. The work will involve the generation, handling and characterization of ultra-short laser, electron and X-ray pulses. The work is experimental and will mainly be carried out at a dedicated experimental station at the multi-terawatt laser (with up to 40 TW peak power) at the Lund High Power Laser Facility, but experiments at other high-power laser facilities will also be considered. The work is pursued in a research team including senior researchers, PhD students and Master students. Supervision and management of experimental studies are therefore important aspects of the work.

Qualification requirements

• A PhD within the subject of the position.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Good collaborative skills, drive and independence.
• Experience in at least two of the following three subject areas:
  • Ultrafast (femtosecond) lasers, in particular multi-terawatt lasers.
  • Laser-plasma particle accelerators.
  • Applications of electron- or x-ray beams in material science or medical physics.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment
Fixed-term employment, 6 months. 

Instructions on how to apply
Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• Résumé/CV, including a list of publications,
• A general description of past research and future research interests.