Postdoctoral Research Assistant on the Diamond-II Light Source

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution is seeking a highly qualified post-doctoral research assistant for a fixed-term role in accelerator physics research on the Diamond-II synchrotron project. This position entails conducting in-depth simulations, developing advanced numerical tools, and participating in machine development shifts. Candidates should hold a PhD/DPhil or be close to completion in a relevant field and possess strong skills in beam dynamics and communication. Teaching opportunities may also be available.

Qualifications

• Hold or be close to completion of a PhD/DPhil in accelerator physics, particle physics or a related field.
• Solid background in beam dynamics, lattice design and beam transport studies.
• Demonstrate ability to work as part of a team and plan independently.

Responsibilities

• Conduct simulations and analysis to model Diamond-II accelerators.
• Develop numerical simulation and optimisation tools.
• Interact with Engineering, Diagnostics, and other technical groups.

Skills

Beam dynamics

Lattice design

Beam transport studies

Strong communication skills

Self-motivated

Education

PhD/DPhil in accelerator physics, particle physics or related field

Tools

Accelerator Toolbox

ELEGANT

Job description

Overview

The post is available for a fixed-term duration of 24 months with the possibility of 12-month extension.

The John Adams Institute for Accelerator Science at the University of Oxford and Diamond Light Source Ltd. are seeking a highly qualified post‑doctoral research assistant to carry out research relevant to the Diamond‑II synchrotron light source project. The successful candidate will work with members of the Diamond Accelerator Physics Group, investigating topics such as the impact of collective effects on beam stability and associated mitigation methods, commissioning of the injector complex and storage ring injection studies. The successful candidate will actively collaborate with other technical groups working on the design and will also have the opportunity to conduct experiments and machine‑development activities on the existing accelerators.

Key Duties

• Conduct in‑depth simulations and analysis to model and understand the performance of the Diamond‑II accelerators for both single and multi‑particle effects.
• Develop and apply advanced numerical simulation and/or optimisation tools to the design and characterization of the facility.
• Interact with other technical groups working on the Diamond‑II design (e.g., Engineering, Diagnostics, Vacuum, RF, Power Supplies, Controls).
• Contribute to producing the relevant procedures and high‑level software tools to achieve the above.
• Actively participate in machine development shifts, proposing and undertaking new experiments, carrying out the corresponding data analysis and reporting the findings to the Accelerator Physics and Machine Development meetings.

Qualifications

• Hold or be close to completion of a PhD/DPhil in accelerator physics, particle physics or a related field.
• Solid background in beam dynamics, lattice design and beam transport studies.
• Demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team, identify research objectives and conceive, plan, and independently execute appropriate activities to deadlines.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Self‑motivated and able to motivate and guide the work of others.
• Previous experience in the commissioning and operation of storage rings is an advantage.
• Knowledge of accelerator physics modelling codes such as Accelerator Toolbox or ELEGANT is an advantage.

Teaching Opportunities

The post‑holder will have the opportunity to teach, which may include lecturing, small group teaching, and tutoring of undergraduates and graduate students.