Plasma Physics Staff Research Associate - 141978

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego invites applications for a 1-year limited position supporting pulsed power-driven plasma experiments. The incumbent will operate the pulsed power driver and safety systems, perform data processing, and present results to the PI’s team, coordinating with the PI to design experiments.

Occasional travel to Cornell University, the University of Michigan, or Sandia National Laboratories may be required.

Qualifications

• A related degree with one year of relevant work experience or equivalent combination.
• Experience in data processing and analysis.
• Proficiency in data and image analysis using Python, ImageJ, Origin or similar.
• Experience using cameras, optics, and lasers.
• Ability to follow good experimental procedures.
• Strong communication skills with PI and team members.
• Ability to work safely with high voltage equipment and pulsed power systems.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a research environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate the pulsed power driver, safety system and diagnostics for wire load plasmas.
• Process data and present results to the PI's research team.
• Collaborate with the PI to design and carry out experiments.

Skills

Data processing

Python scripting

ImageJ

Cameras & optics

Lab safety

Teamwork

Communication

High voltage safety

Experimental procedures

Experimental design

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering or Physics

Tools

Origin

Job description

Job posting will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified.

Priority consideration will be given to applications received by 11/09/26.

This is a 100% limited position for 1 year with the possibility of extension or conversion to career status.

DESCRIPTION

Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, the incumbent will assist with pulsed power-driven plasma experiments and will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Rama facility. Incumbent will coordinate with the PI to design and carry out experimental research.

They will operate the pulsed power driver, relevant safety system and associated diagnostics, primarily pertaining to the diagnosis of wire load plasmas for high energy density physics research. The incumbent will carry out data processing and presentation of results to the PIs research team.

The incumbent may occasionally also visit and assist in experiments on pulsed power experiments at Cornell University, the University of Michigan or Sandia National Laboratories

QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of Mechanical Engineering or Physics as obtained through a related degree and one year of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience performing data processing and analysis.

• Strong computer skills including experience for data and image analysis (python, ImageJ, Origin or similar).

• Demonstrated ability to use cameras, optics, and lasers.

• Demonstrated capability in the exercise of good experimental procedures.

• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills to maintain high-quality communication with PI and other lab members.

• Demonstrated ability to work safely with high voltage equipment and pulsed power systems.

• Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.

• Demonstrated experience working in an academic research environment.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

• Must be willing and able to travel.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• This is a 100% limited position for 1 year with the possibility of extension or conversion to career status.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $62,891 - $75,022 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $30.12 - $35.93

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).