Instrument Scientist for Neutron Beam Techniques within the Radiation Science and Engineering Center at the Pennsylvania State University

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Competitive retirement plans

Comprehensive medical/dental/vision

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University’s Radiation Science and Engineering Center (RSEC) invites applications for an Instrument/Data Scientist position focused on Neutron Beam Techniques and PSU-SANS facility maintenance. This term, non-tenure-line role emphasizes experimental work and facility utilization in a collaborative research environment.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in a physical science or engineering, have strong experimental skills, and experience with scattering techniques or

Qualifications

• PhD in physical sciences or engineering is required and strong experimental skills are essential.
• Experience with scattering techniques or computer simulation is highly desirable.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate across research teams.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and operate the PSU-SANS facility and related RSEC facilities.
• Carry out studies on soft condensed matter using SANS and coordinate research activities.
• Develop and support research utilizing other RSEC facilities and equipment.

Skills

PhD required

Experimental skills

Communication skills

Scattering techniques

Computer simulation

Education

PhD in physical science or engineering

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Radiation Science and Engineering Center (RSEC) within the College of Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University has an opening for an Instrument/Data Scientist position for Neutron Beam Techniques. A V16 -VSANS facility was donated by HZB-Germany to Penn State. The VSANS facility was relocated and installed at newly expanded neutron beam hall at Penn State, making it the only university research reactor facility in the United States with SANS capability. Main activities for the selected candidate involve primarily maintenance, and utilization of PSU-SANS facility.

The successful candidate must have a PhD in a physical science, or engineering, excellent experimental skills, and good communication skills. Experiences in scattering techniques and/or computer simulation are highly desirable. The candidate will be expected to carry out studies or involved others research for soft condensed matter systems using SANS. The successful candidate will also be responsible for developing stimulating and supporting research utilizing other RSEC facilities and will be given appropriate academic work title corresponding the education and academic experiences. The RSEC facilities include the Penn State Breazeale Reactor (PSBR), gamma irradiation facilities (In-pool Irradiator and Dry Irradiator), Neutron Beam Laboratory and Hot Cells, Radionuclear Applications Laboratory with NAA and Compton Suppression system, Radiochemistry Teaching Laboratory, Nuclear Security Education Laboratory, Subcritical Graphite Reactor Facility, and various Radiation Detection and Measurement Laboratories. The RSEC facilities are expanded with installation of new core moderator assembly and new beam ports, a cold neutron source, new expanded neutron beam hall and office and laboratory spaces.

The RSEC facilities are a regulated drug-free work place and applicants must pass drug screening and are subject to random and for-cause testing. Selected applicant must pass additional federal background investigation and Environmental Health and Safety Radiation Worker qualification orientation. Vehicles and personal property may randomly be subject to search upon entering and exiting the facility.

Possible faculty titles may include Assistant Research Professor or Associate Research Professor; which is dependent on candidate's experience. This is a non-tenure-line professional track position, and title/rank will be dependent upon experience and qualifications.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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