Optical Engineer at the Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS) (Lemont, IL)

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x flag Posted: 2014-01-10 5:36pm

Notice of Vacancy
Optical Engineer
for the Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS)
at the Advanced Photon Source

Washington State University (WSU) is seeking to hire a strongly self-motivated, talented Optical Engineer (Administrative/Professional Staff Member) to support the research activities at a first-of-a-kind experimental user facility: The Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS) at the Advanced Photon Source (APS), Argonne National Laboratory. The DCS is dedicated to time-resolved X-ray measurements under dynamic compression. We are looking to hire an experimentalist who enjoys hands-on experimental work and problem solving in a fast-paced, research environment. The DCS research activities involve state-of-the-art, dynamic compression experiments that utilize X-ray and optical measurements on nanosecond time-scales to understand the response of materials at high dynamic stresses.

The location for this WSU position is the Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL. Initially, the individual hired in this position will be temporarily located in Pullman, WA to obtain hands on experience on the capabilities used to make measurements under dynamic compression.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Participate in the design and development of research methodologies for a broad range of experimental projects related to dynamic compression measurements at DCS.
2. Take the lead in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of electronic and optical components, equipment and systems, particularly laser-based diagnostics, such as interferometry and time resolved optical imaging systems.
3. Develop and maintain data acquisition software related to interferometry and imaging measurements.
4. Assist DCS users for experimental operations, including experimental set up and data analysis.
5. Independently define and complete experimental projects and tasks.
6. Contribute effectively to all aspects of the research projects including maintenance of the experimental facilities; ordering experimental components, equipment and supplies; and working effectively in a team setting.
7. Responsible for maintaining safety hardware and documentation (e.g. operating procedures) related to laser control areas at DCS.
8. Conduct and analyze research experiments, and prepare reports and publications as appropriate.

Many of the experiments performed at the DCS utilize lasers, including gated CW DPSS frequency doubled lasers, gated CW IR fiber lasers, low power visible and IR lasers, and pulsed and CW laser diodes as integral components of experiments of the shocked state of materials. A wide array of optical detection and analysis apparatus are also utilized, including biased and amplified photodiodes, APD's, PMT's, image intensifiers, fast framing cameras, ICCD's, streak cameras, and other state-of-the-art electro-optic instrumentation. The successful candidate will learn to operate and maintain these systems, as well as design new systems, and select appropriate components to advance the capabilities of the DCS.

Qualifications
Only applicants who are currently in the U.S. and meet the following minimum qualifications will be considered for the position:

Background in dynamic compression research is not required for this position; however, a strong, hands-on experimental background and skills are essential. The required professional qualifications and personal attributes are:

? A M.S. degree in Physics or a related field with a strong experimental background in optical physics, optics, lasers or optoelectronics.
? Strong hands-on ability with design and fabrication of instruments and experimental components.
? Good familiarity with hardware and software required for photonic based experiments.
? Good computer skills, including experience with technical/design programs, such as LabView and SolidWorks, and working knowledge of data analysis software.
? Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
? Personal attributes should include critical thinking, good judgment, clear sense of purpose, attention to detail, ability to work effectively in a team, and accountability.
? Must be able to obtain a badge at U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratories to gain access to restricted areas

The salary structure is both attractive and nationally competitive. Other benefits include health/dental insurance, vacation/sick leave, and retirement plans.

Applications
To apply, please send application materials to dcs.info@wsu.edu. Applicants should submit a letter of application explicitly addressing the qualifications for this position and date of availability; detailed resume; and the contact information for three professional references.

Questions may be submitted to Sheila Heyns, Manager, Administration and Operations Institute for Shock Physics, 509-335-1861.

This position is available now. We will begin reviewing submissions immediately and will continue to do so until the position is filled.

Additional information about the Dynamic Compression Sector, the Institute for Shock Physics, and Washington State University follows:

Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS) Background
Washington State University (WSU) and the Advanced Photon Source (APS) have formed a partnership to develop the DCS facility at the APS, dedicated to dynamic compression research. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is funding the development of this first-of-a-kind user facility. The DCS represents an important experimental capability in support of the NNSA's scientific mission, and offers an opportunity to pursue fundamental science that has not been possible at any synchrotron radiation facility in the past.

The DCS, with a focus on time-resolved X-ray diffraction and imaging measurements in materials subjected to dynamic compression, provides in-situ, time-resolved, measurements at microscopic length scales to achieve a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms governing a broad range of time-dependent, condensed matter phenomena (structural transformations, inelastic deformation and fracture, and chemical reactions) under dynamic loading. Such measurements are also essential for validating multi-scale modeling of the key materials phenomena under shock wave and shockless compression.

The energies (hard x-rays) and the time-structure (ns-separated pulses) of the APS X-rays are uniquely suited to examine time-dependent changes in materials subjected to a broad range of peak stresses (~ 5 GPa to well above 100 GPa) and time-durations (tens to several hundred ns). The DCS, with its emphasis on condensed matter and materials science activities using a variety of dynamic compression platforms, is an excellent complement to other national user facilities that emphasize static pressure materials response, warm dense matter response, and dense plasma response.

The DCS is an exciting and visionary scientific undertaking that integrates scientific/technical expertise across the DOE (NNSA and the Office of Science) to address both scientific and programmatic challenges. Further information about DCS may be found at www.dcs-aps.wsu.edu.

The Institute for Shock Physics (ISP)
A multidisciplinary research organization within the College of Arts and Sciences, the ISP undertakes a broad range of fundamental scientific activities related to understanding condensed matter response under dynamic and static compression. Washington State University has a long and distinguished history of conducting research in dynamic compression science. In 1997, the Institute was established with support from the DOE (Defense Programs) to ensure a strong, long-term academic base for the DOE's national security mission, and is currently funded through NNSA's Stockpile Stewardship Academic Alliance (SSAA) Program, WSU funds, and other extra-mural support.

Continuum-to-Atomic level understanding is the pervading scientific theme of the research activities that emphasize integration of innovative experiments with theoretical and computational advances. Multidisciplinary efforts that combine expertise in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, and Mechanical Engineering are underway to address several exciting and challenging scientific problems. In addition to the faculty within the Institute, students and faculty from several departments within the College of Arts and Sciences and the College Engineering participate in the Institute's research projects. Excellent research interactions are in place with the NNSA National Laboratories: Lawrence Livermore, Los Alamos, and Sandia.

A brief summary of the Institute's activities follows. Experimental work, under dynamic compression, typically involves fast, time-resolved measurements in single event, impact experiments. Research projects currently underway include: time-resolved x-ray diffraction studies; pressure induced structural phase transitions; understanding of inelastic deformation and failure under dynamic loading; effect of material microstructure on dynamic deformation; chemical decomposition in energetic materials; development of fast optical methods to probe shock induced changes; effect of deformation on semiconductor properties; high pressure equation of state studies; and chemical and physical changes under static high pressures. Since Professor C. S. Yoo's appointment in 2007, a strong static high pressure research program has complemented the shock wave effort. Very recently (Summer 2013), Professor Christian Mailhiot was hired to build a strong theoretical/computational research program to complement the experimental activities.

State-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities are housed in the Shock Physics Building. Inaugurated in 2003, the building was designed specifically for shock wave research and represents a unique facility among academic institutions. The major experimental research facilities available for studying physical and chemical phenomena over a large range of length and time scales include the Impact Laboratory, Laser Shock Laboratory, Static High Pressure Laboratory, and the Compact Pulsed Power Facility. Among the Institute's research capabilities is a Computational Facility designed to complement the experimental effort. Further details may be seen at www.shock.wsu.edu.

Washington State University (WSU)
Washington State University, one of the two research universities in the state, was founded in 1890 as the state's land-grant institution and is located in Pullman with regional campuses in Spokane, Vancouver and the Tri-Cities. It is a Carnegie Doctoral/Research Extensive University with a strong emphasis on excellence in research and education. Current enrollment is approximately 26,300 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. The University offers more than 200 fields of study, with 95 majors for undergraduates, 64 master's degree programs, 44 doctoral degree programs, and 2 professional degree programs. Academically, the University is organized into 10 colleges (Agriculture, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences; Arts and Sciences; Business; Communication; Education; Engineering and Architecture; Honors; Nursing; Pharmacy; Veterinary Medicine) and a Graduate School.

WSU is an EO/AA Educator and Employer.
Location: Lemont, ILPrincipals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.do NOT contact us with unsolicited services or offerspost id: 4281813291

posted: 2014-01-10 5:36pm

updated: 2014-01-10 5:36pm

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