HEDP Experimental Scientist – X-ray Diagnostics Lead

University-of-Rochester; City of Rochester (NY); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics seeks a Scientist to advance high‑energy‑density physics experiments. You will design and lead tests using x-ray spectroscopy, scattering, and diffraction to study matter under extreme conditions, collaborating with engineers, theorists, and diagnostic specialists.

Applicants should have a strong publication record and experience with large laser facilities; prior work at Omega, NIF, LCLS, APS, or European XFEL is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Experimental Physics, Engineering, or closely related field.
• 2+ years of postdoctoral or equivalent research in experimental HEDP preferred.
• Proven record of experimental research and peer‑reviewed publications.
• Experience leading experiments at high‑power laser facilities or light sources.

Responsibilities

• Conceive, design, lead, and execute HEDP experiments using x-ray diagnostics.
• Lead campaigns at LLE and external facilities, including planning and data interpretation.
• Collaborate with target fabrication, laser, diagnostic, and engineering teams.
• Work with theorists to model observables and connect to atomic/material models.
• Develop proposals to secure experimental time at Omega and other facilities.
• Publish results in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Mentor graduate students and postdocs.

Skills

Independent leadership

X-ray spectroscopy

X-ray diagnostics

Python data analysis

Scientific publication

Communication

Collaborative research

Experiment design

Education

Ph.D. in Experimental Physics, Engineering, or closely related field

Job description

The University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics seeks a Scientist to advance high‑energy‑density physics experiments. You will design and lead tests using x-ray spectroscopy, scattering, and diffraction to study matter under extreme conditions, collaborating with engineers, theorists, and diagnostic specialists.

Applicants should have a strong publication record and experience with large laser facilities; prior work at Omega, NIF, LCLS, APS, or European XFEL is highly desirable.