Postdoctoral Research Associate Physics - Brookhaven National Laboratory

The Optics Group at the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) is actively seeking a Research Associate specializing in ultra-precision optical metrology and mirror fabrication. Aligned with NSLS-II's strategic objectives, the Optics Group plays an important role in advancing high-spatial-resolution imaging and high-coherent-flux scattering by employing cutting-edge optical design and modeling, sub-nanometer-level metrology, and diffraction-limited X-ray mirror fabrication techniques.

Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Energy and Photon Sciences Directorate are committed to your success. We offer a supportive work environment and the resources necessary for you to succeed.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Currently, our research interests comprise two primary domains: highly curved X-ray mirror metrology and deterministic X-ray mirror fabrication based on ion beam figuring. Depending on the candidate's expertise, they will contribute to one or both of these research areas. The selected candidate is expected to utilize established methodologies and instruments in X-ray mirror technology while also exploring innovative capabilities to measure and fabricate next-generation X-ray mirrors.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Understand and resolve fundamental constraints in precision metrology of high-curvature surfaces, and/or,
    o Establish an optical probe-based coordinate measuring machine for high-curvature and 2D curved X-ray mirror metrology.
    o Use and extend the ex-situ metrology capabilities by improving the hardware and algorithms.
• Develop new and improved processes for ion beam figuring (IBF) or other energy beam-based finishing processes for X-ray mirror fabrication.
    o Understand and model surface generation during long-time ion beam sputtering, which is essential in finishing high-curvature X-ray mirrors.
    o Enhance the determinism (predictability) of the IBF process by leveraging artificial intelligence or machine learning (AI/ML).
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journal articles.
• Present research work and results to the management and scientific conferences.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• PhD. degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Engineering, or other engineering disciplines related to optical metrology and/or fabrication.
• Knowledge in optical metrology and/or fabrication technologies and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated experience and skills in control system integration and software development for data acquisition and analysis.
• Demonstrated experience and expertise in optical metrology and/or fabrication algorithms.
• Excellent skills in modeling, analytical, and experimental methods.
• Self-motivated, ability to take initiative, and ability to use creativity.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge and experience in interfacing hardware and software development in C++.
• Fluent in at least one of the following programming languages: MATLAB, Python, and Julia for data analysis.
• Knowledge and experience in AI/ML.
• Knowledge in fringe analysis, phase measurement, and deflectometry.
• Experience in characterization methods of ultra-precision optics (e.g. interferometer, microscope, etc.)

OTHER INFORMATION:

• 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.

• Brookhaven Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $70,200 - $116,200. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.