Postdoctoral Researcher in Detector Developments for High-energy Astroparticle Physics

Physics World; Canada; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Canadian university is inviting applications for a postdoctoral researcher to work on detector developments for the HELIX (High Energy Light Isotope eXperiment). The successful candidate will lead detector development, collaborate with the LEMMA group, and mentor students. A PhD in experimental astroparticle physics is required. The position offers a nominal two-year appointment with potential for extension, starting in summer 2026.

Qualifications

• PhD required by start of appointment.
• Experience in particle detector development and data analysis.
• Ability to work in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead detector development for HELIX and future cosmic-ray experiments.
• Collaborate with the LEMMA group.
• Interact with researchers at underground laboratories.

Skills

Particle detector development

Data analysis

Collaboration

Education

PhD in experimental astroparticle physics

Job description

Overview

The Laboratory for Extreme Multi-Messenger Astrophysics (LEMMA, Queen’s University at Kingston) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to work on detector developments for HELIX (High Energy Light Isotope eXperiment), a long-duration balloon experiment. HELIX is a balloon-borne magnet spectrometer designed to measure cosmic-ray isotopes with energies higher than 0.1 GeV/n. It had a successful flight from Kiruna, Sweden, in summer 2024 and is refurbishing and developing detectors for future flights. The successful candidate will take a leadership role in detector development, including testing, optimization, and calibration.

Responsibilities

• Lead detector development for HELIX and future cosmic-ray experiments, including testing, optimization, calibration.
• Collaborate with the LEMMA group and participate in group discussions on multi-messenger high-energy astrophysics.
• Work closely with local graduate and undergraduate students; interact with researchers working on underground laboratories (SNOLAB) and subatomic hardware development.

Qualifications

• PhD in experimental astroparticle physics, high-energy particle physics, or a closely related field by the start of the appointment.
• Experience in particle detector development and data analysis; interest in technology development for future detectors.
• Ability to work in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Appointments nominally for two years, with the possibility of a one-year renewal.

Application and Start Dates

Applications will be reviewed starting March 1, 2026. The start date is summer 2026 and may be negotiable. Applications require: curriculum vitae (including publications and conference presentations); research statements; two letters of recommendation. Materials may be submitted via the application web page provided.

Equity and Contact

Employment Equity: Queen’s University invites applications from all qualified candidates. The university is committed to employment equity and workplace diversity and welcomes applications from women, visible minorities, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, priority will be given to Canadians and permanent residents. The University will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodations for accessibility needs.

Information

For information about the position, contact Nahee Park at [e-mail]