Assistant Scientist

Interfolio, Inc; City of Rochester (NY); On-site; USD 83,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Rochester’s Laboratory for Laser Energetics is seeking a Scientist to study and develop optical and laser materials. The role involves designing and executing experiments in laser-material interactions and supporting laser gain materials development.

The candidate will handle systems with lasers, imaging, and interferometric diagnostics, and must be able to operate equipment at both single-shot and 10 Hz rates. PhD or equivalent experience in optics-related fields is required.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in Optics, Materials Science, Physical Chemistry, or related field is required.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance is required.
• Experience with optical materials characterization and optical metrology techniques is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the study of laser-material interactions.
• Support long term development of laser gain materials.
• Design, build, and troubleshoot experimental systems that include lasers, imaging, and interferometric diagnostics.
• Support the operation of existing and newly acquired equipment and instrumentation for laser physics experiments.
• Work in an environment with a visible and audible laser operating at both single shot and 10 Hz rep rates.

Skills

Optical materials

Optical metrology

Communication

Laboratory skills

Python/C++

Education

PhD or equivalent in Optics/Materials Science/Physical Chemistry

Tools

Python

C++

Job description

University of Rochester: Office of the Provost: Academic Center: LLE-Laboratory for Laser Energ

Location

Laboratory for Laser Energetics

Open Date

Aug 12, 2026

Salary Range or Pay Grade

82,500-110,000

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Experimental Division is seeking a Scientist to study, characterized and develop existing and novel optical and laser materials. A successful candidate will possess expertise in the design, planning, and execution of experiments for studying solid state material properties and their response to different types of optical and mechanical damage. The candidate will be challenged by the wide range of mechanisms at play in laser-material interactions in various classes of materials.

RESPONSIBLITIES:

• Support the study of laser-material interactions.
• Support long term development of laser gain materials.
• Design, build, and trouble-shoot experimental systems that include lasers, imaging, and interferometric diagnostics.
• Support the operation of existing and newly acquired equipment and instrumentation for laser physics experiments.
• Work in an environment with a visible and audible laser operating at both single shot and constant 10 Hz rep rates.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD with equivalent experience in Optics, Materials Science, Physical Chemistry, or related field
• Ability to obtain a security clearance

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:

• Experience with optical materials characterization and optical metrology techniques
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ability to learn additional software operation
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and navigate stairs/ladders
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Work both independently and as a part of a multidisciplinary team

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Experience with programming language such as Python or C++
• Technical writing experience and documentation skills

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Classes). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.