Post-doctoral fellow in Accelerator physics and Free Electron Laser - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject description

The MAX IV facility operates the first fourth generation storage ring for synchrotron radiation in the world. These new facilities provide a dramatically reduced emittance of the electron beam enabling fundamentally new research using synchrotron light. An ultralow emittance ring will also enable other technologies and schemes for light production. Free Electron Lasers can generate extreme intensities with higher temporal and spatial coherence, however up until now they have been difficult to conceive in the X-ray range at storage rings, and thus linear accelerators have been used.

In this project we intend to investigate how a FEL in the X-ray range could be designed making use of the qualities of 4th generation storage rings. The project will include studies of the FEL process, X-ray cavities and the dynamics of the storage ring itself.

In addition, questions on how to tailor the longitudinal bunch shape in the storage ring through high harmonic cavities will be studied. Both to enable control of the peak current and to mitigate instabilities in the storage ring.

 Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral posistion is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position shall include the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.

 Work duties:

• Simulations of the building blocks of a Storage Ring FEL
• Development of concepts and ideas
• Study of higher harmonic cavity systems for the MAX IV Laboratory
• Supervision of degree projects and PhD students
• Collaboration with projects at other facilities

 Qualification requirements

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position, completed no more than three years before the date of employment decision. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

The successful candidate should have a thorough experience of FEL simulations and accelerator modeling. The suitable postdoc should be able to work both alone and to collaborate with the other people in the team. Ability to discuss and share knowledge and results is crucial for building the overall competence in the project. Creativity and ability to discuss and jointly develop the Storage Ring FEL concept will be important.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• A PhD in Accelerator physics or equivalent subject.
• Experience and good knowledge of FEL simulations (including time-dependent simulations).
• Good knowledge of electron beam dynamics and experience with simulation codes.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers.

Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Scientific writing of papers and ability to communicate results.
• Experience of FEL and accelerator operation is an advantage.
• Experience from previous FEL design studies is an advantage.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, teaching 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
This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of a maximum of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S and OFR/S, dated 1st February 2022.

 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 personal letter and a general description of past research and future research interests (no more than three pages),
• contact information of at least two references,
• copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.