Postdoctoral Research Associate - Accelerator Physics

The National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) at Brookhaven National Laboratory is a state-of-the-art synchrotron facility that produces high-brightness X-rays for cutting-edge scientific research. The Accelerator Physics Division at NSLS-II advances beam dynamics, RF systems, diagnostics, and accelerator technologies that enable reliable high-current operation of present and future ultra-low emittance synchrotron light sources.

Position Description

The NSLS-II Accelerator Physics Division is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct research on multi-harmonic RF cavity systems and advanced bunch-stretching techniques for ultra-low emittance storage rings. The successful candidate will work with accelerator physicists and RF engineers to study longitudinal beam dynamics, RF system performance, and beam stability in support of future storage-ring upgrades and advanced accelerator concepts. The appointment will be for a 2-year term.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct analytical and computational studies of multi-harmonic RF cavity systems for bunch lengthening in ultra-low emittance storage rings.

• Investigate beam loading effects, transient beam-loading phenomena, fill-pattern dependence, and longitudinal beam stability in active and passive harmonic cavity configurations.

• Evaluate operating conditions and optimize RF system parameters, including cavity voltages, phases, detuning frequencies, and feedback settings, to achieve stable bunch-lengthening solutions.

• Perform numerical simulations using accelerator physics codes such as ELEGANT and related software to study longitudinal beam dynamics and coupled-bunch instabilities.

• Work closely with NSLS-II RF engineers and accelerator physicists to assess the feasibility of proposed multi-harmonic cavity configurations and define operational requirements for future implementation.

• Support preparation for beam-based studies and experimental benchmarking of harmonic cavity systems at NSLS-II.

• Present research results at scientific meetings and conferences and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ph.D. degree in Physics or a related discipline with research experience in accelerator physics, beam physics, or RF systems.

• Strong background in accelerator beam dynamics, with emphasis on longitudinal beam dynamics, RF systems, beam instabilities.

• Demonstrated experience with analytical modeling, numerical simulations, and scientific computing for accelerator physics applications.

• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.

• Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of higher-harmonic RF cavity systems, beam loading, transient effects, coupled-bunch instabilities, and longitudinal beam stability in storage rings.

• Experience with accelerator simulation tools such as ELEGANT, MAD-X, Accelerator Toolbox, or related beam dynamics code.

• Experience with high-performance computing, numerical optimization, parameter scans, or large-scale simulation studies.

• Familiarity with RF cavity operation, including active and passive harmonic cavities, detuning, quality factor, shunt impedance, and longitudinal feedback systems.

Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $74,050.00 - $90,000.00 / year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group. 

BNL policy requires that after obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.

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Brookhaven National Laboratory (www.bnl.gov) delivers discovery science and transformative technology to power and secure the nation’s future. Brookhaven Lab is a multidisciplinary laboratory with seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, 37 R&D 100 Awards, and more than 70 years of pioneering research. The Lab is primarily supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science. Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) operates and manages the Laboratory for DOE. BSA is a partnership between Battelle and The Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University. BSA salutes our veterans and active military members with careers that leverage the skills and unique experience they gained while serving our country, learn more at BNL | Opportunities for Veterans at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

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