Postdoctoral Position: Electron-Nucleus Scattering Phenomenology

Physics World; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 74,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nuclear Science Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to develop an inclusive electron-nucleus scattering cross section model with a focus on nucleon-nucleon short-range correlations (SRCs) and to connect theory with experimental data from Jefferson Lab and future EIC.

This joint appointment between the RNC experimental group and the Nuclear Theory Group offers flexibility to be hosted in either group and to pursue complementary independent

Qualifications

• PhD in nuclear or particle physics required or related field.
• Strong background in nuclear structure, electron scattering, or global data analysis.
• Proven scientific computing and code development experience.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary setting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate calculations of quasielastic and deep-inelastic scattering into a unified cross-section framework.
• Develop, test, document, and maintain scientific software for modeling, fitting, uncertainty quantification, and data interpretation.
• Explore applications of the developed framework to current and future measurements.
• Interpret research findings and disseminate results through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, presentations, workshops, and scientific conferences.
• Contribute to an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative research environment.

Skills

Scientific computing

Code development

Independent work

Collaborative work

Travel readiness

Education

PhD in nuclear or particle physics

Tools

Python

C++

Git

Job description

The Nuclear Science Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to work on the development of an inclusive electron-nucleus scattering cross section model with a focus on describing nucleon-nucleon short-range correlations (SRCs).

The successful candidate will bridge the gap between precision experimental data and modern theoretical frameworks, transforming nuclear structure and electron scattering calculations into a broadly applicable phenomenological tool for experiments at Jefferson Lab and the future Electron-Ion Collider (EIC).

This position is structured as a joint collaborative appointment between the LBNL Relativistic Nuclear Collisions (RNC) experimental group and the Nuclear Theory Group. Candidates from both theoretical and experimental backgrounds who wish to pivot into cross-cutting phenomenology are strongly encouraged to apply. The candidate will have the flexibility to be hosted within either the RNC or Nuclear Theory Group based on their research background, interests, and project needs. This position will also provide opportunities to pursue complementary independent research aligned with the scientific priorities of either program in broad areas of QCD.

The RNC leads collider experiments at RHIC and LHC, and fixed target measurements at Jefferson Lab, while the Nuclear Theory Group covers a range of topics connected to nucleon and nuclei structure, heavy ion physics, many body physics, neutrino/astrophysics, and fundamental asymmetries. The local SRC program, led by Shujie Li and John Arrington, focuses on electron scattering experiments at Jefferson Lab including the 2018 tritium program (E12-11-112), the 2022 XEM2 experiment, and the recently C1 approved proposal on next generation tritium SRC measurements (PR12-26-012).

You will:

• Develop and integrate calculations of quasielastic and deep-inelastic scattering processes into a unified framework for modeling electron-nucleus cross-section, and evaluate reaction and nuclear-structure models relevant to SRC kinematics.
• Develop, test, document, and maintain scientific software for modeling, global fitting, uncertainty quantification, and data interpretation.
• Explore applications of the developed framework to current and future measurements.
• Interpret research findings and disseminate results through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, presentations, workshops, and scientific conferences.
• Contribute to an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative research environment consistent with Berkeley Lab’s stewardship values.

We are looking for:

• A recent Ph.D. in theoretical or experimental nuclear or particle Physics, or a related field.
• A strong background in either nuclear structure, electron-scattering theory/experiment, or global data analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in scientific computing and code development.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment and to communicate research findings effectively.
• Ability to work on site at LBNL, and travel to meetings, workshops and conferences.

Additional information:

• Application date: The position is expected to start between November 2026 and June 2027. Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by October 10, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and late application will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type: This is a full-time 2-year postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• Salary range: The salary range for this position is $6,643 - $7,145 per month. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
• Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here ).