Student Research Assistant, Novel Detector Testing (On-site)

TRIUMF Innovations Inc.; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 31,000 - 47,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel cost support for students

Job summary

TRIUMF Innovations Inc. in Vancouver invites applications for a student position to characterize LGAD sensors using Two-Photon Absorption.

The work will combine hands-on measurements, data analysis, and comparison with simulations as part of the PIONEER experiment, to understand gain behaviour and detector performance. You will gain experience with detector technologies and programming in C++ or Python, with opportunities to contribute to data collected at national facilities and to collaborate

Qualifications

• Hands-on laboratory work and programming experience preferred.
• Proficiency in C++ or Python.

Responsibilities

• Perform LGAD sensor measurements using the TPA setup.
• Analyze results and compare with simulations; present findings.
• Assist with data from beamlines and other labs as needed.

Skills

C++

Python

Education

Student in Physics/Engineering

Job description

**Project Name:** Characterization of Low Gain Avalanche Detectors with Two-Photon Absorption.**Overview of the Project:**Low-Gain Avalanche Detectors (LGADs) are a type of silicon-based particle detector designed for precise timing measurements. They operate by amplifying the signal from a passing particle using controlled avalanche multiplication, but at a lower gain compared to traditional avalanche photodiodes. This balance allows LGADs to achieve excellent time resolution while maintaining good spatial resolution.In the context of PIONEER (a next-generation experiment to study rare pion decays), LGADs are being considered for use in the active tracking target, where precise timing and tracking is essential to disentangle overlapping events and suppress background.To better understand LGAD performance, especially gain behaviour, Two-Photon Absorption (TPA) techniques are employed at TRIUMF. TPA allows for localized energy deposition within the sensor, enabling detailed studies of the LGAD response as a function of depth. This is particularly useful for investigating gain suppression effects that occur under high carrier densities, helping to optimize detector design and operating conditions for maximal performance.**Day-to-Day Duties:** Perform measurements of different LGAD sensors using the TPA setup; analyze and interpret the results, compare them with simulations, and present findings. The student may also be involved in analyzing previously acquired LGAD data from the M20 muon beamline at TRIUMF, as well as data to be collected at the Paul Scherrer Institute in December 2026. Depending on their interests, the student may also gain hands-on experience testing a liquid-xenon purity monitor in a cryostat.**Learning Outcomes and Responsibilities:** The student selected for this position will play an active role in the characterization of LGAD sensors, contributing to both the experimental measurements and the analysis of the data. This work will provide hands-on experience with state-of-the-art detector technologies and contribute directly to the development of instrumentation for the PIONEER experiment and other applications.**Qualifications:**The student should enjoy hands-on laboratory work as well as programming. A good foundation in C++ or Python would be preferred.**Skills required:**C++ Programming Language, Python (Programming Language)TRIUMF, Canada's national laboratory for particle and nuclear physics, is situated on the vibrant south campus of the University of British Columbia, nestled within the beautiful Pacific Spirit Park in Vancouver, BC.At TRIUMF, we value our employees and are committed to providing a competitive total rewards package. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer comprehensive benefits that promote the well-being and security of our staff. Our organization provides an excellent opportunity to grow your career in a high-profile national research facility, where you can make a difference.If you are passionate about science, engineering and technology, driven to excel, and eager to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking organization, we encourage you to apply. Take the next step in your career journey with TRIUMF.TRIUMF offers help with travel costs for students outside the Vancouver and surrounding area.**Applications must have the following documents uploaded:*** A **resume/CV*** A covering letter that includes your interest in and your qualifications for the specific position* A copy of academic transcript (unofficial copies are accepted)**Incomplete applications may not be considered.****Applications closing date:**September 21, 2026**Period of Work (possible 4 month extension):**January 04, 2027-April 30, 2027Salary is commensurate with academic progress and previous relevant work experience, and ranges from $ 2815 to $ 4238 per month including 4% vacation pay.