Postdoc: SR-XFELO Optics & X-ray Cavity Research

Argonne National Laboratory; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 73,000 - 121,000; Full time

Job summary

Argonne National Laboratory’s X‑ray Science Division (XSD) Optics group and ASD Diagnostics are seeking a Postdoctoral Appointee to explore a storage‑ring X‑FELO at the APS. You will help assess a 9.8 keV hard X‑ray oscillator in a 5‑m undulator section, integrating a transverse‑gradient undulator with a diamond‑crystal cavity and high‑heat‑load optics.

Primary work includes cavity concept development, electron/X‑ray beam simulations, and cryogenically cooled diamond mirrors testing.

Qualifications

• Recent Ph.D. (within the last 0‑5 years) in physics, photon science, accelerator science, engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experimental experience in an accelerator, synchrotron‑radiation, beamline, or comparable scientific environment.
• Record of peer‑reviewed publications appropriate to career stage.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evaluate X‑ray cavity concepts and optical components for SR‑XFELO operation.
• Perform electron‑ and X‑ray‑beam simulations to assess FEL and cavity performance.
• Design, test, and characterize cryogenically cooled diamond‑crystal cavity mirrors at the APS beamlines.
• Investigate high‑heat‑load X‑ray optical components and develop methods to improve their thermal and mechanical stability.
• Support conceptual integration of the SR‑XFELO with a next‑generation sub‑meV inelastic X‑ray scattering spectrometer.
• Contribute to the design of optical, mechanical, and diagnostic systems for component and subsystem testing.

Skills

Hands-on experimental experience

Strong written and verbal skills

Independent and collaborative work

Peer‑reviewed publications

Education

Ph.D. in physics, photon science, accelerator science, engineering or related field

Job description

Argonne National Laboratory’s X‑ray Science Division (XSD) Optics group and ASD Diagnostics are seeking a Postdoctoral Appointee to explore a storage‑ring X‑FELO at the APS. You will help assess a 9.8 keV hard X‑ray oscillator in a 5‑m undulator section, integrating a transverse‑gradient undulator with a diamond‑crystal cavity and high‑heat‑load optics.

Primary work includes cavity concept development, electron/X‑ray beam simulations, and cryogenically cooled diamond mirrors testing.