MIR Laser Scientist — Time-Resolved X-ray Pump–Probe

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in Menlo Park, CA, is seeking an outstanding laser scientist to advance time‑resolved X‑ray science across SSRL and LCLS. The role leads development, deployment, and operation of advanced MIR pump‑probe capabilities, bridging laser research with user‑driven X‑ray science.

The fixed‑term Project Scientist position is three years with potential extension, onsite work, and collaboration across SSRL, LCLS, and PULSE to expand experimental opportunities in

Qualifications

• PhD in physics/optics/engineering or related field with postdoc experience in pump‑probe measurements, ultrafast laser systems, or nonlinear optics.
• Demonstrated expertise in high‑power THz and/or MIR laser systems.
• Record of research/publications commensurate with experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including technical documentation.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with beamline staff to design, deploy, and operate a high‑power MIR laser for pump‑probe experiments at SSRL beamline 17‑2.
• Develop robust, high‑powered MIR laser sources for new pump‑probe experiments in materials science and chemistry.
• Design, build, and characterize MIR laser systems to support MIR generation schemes and integration with SSRL/LCLS research programs.
• Serve as System Laser Safety Officer for SSRL, LCLS, and PULSE laser labs and beamlines.
• Commission and optimize deployed systems, establish operating procedures, and collect user feedback for future enhancements.

Skills

Ultrafast lasers

Pump-probe experiments

High-power MIR THz lasers

Publications

Communication skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Team leadership

Education

MS degree or PhD candidacy

Job description

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in Menlo Park, CA, is seeking an outstanding laser scientist to advance time‑resolved X‑ray science across SSRL and LCLS. The role leads development, deployment, and operation of advanced MIR pump‑probe capabilities, bridging laser research with user‑driven X‑ray science.

The fixed‑term Project Scientist position is three years with potential extension, onsite work, and collaboration across SSRL, LCLS, and PULSE to expand experimental opportunities in