AssocSci-DropletDel, LCLS-IIHE

About the role

The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), a Directorate of the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, and a national user facility, seeks an Associate Staff Scientist to take a leading role in the development of sample delivery methods and systems, as well as in the application of electrochemical control techniques for studies of transition metal catalysts and redox-active systems. They will leverage current droplet based and liquid jet delivery methods, as well as develop new techniques to enable new scientific measurements and compatibility with LCLS-II-HE upgrades.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to user support activities primarily at the Macromolecular Femtosecond Crystallography (MFX) instrument, where they will develop, optimize, and construct advanced sample delivery systems in-house.
• Enable high-impact time-resolved crystallography and spectroscopy experiments using these systems.
• Lead efforts to replicate and improve current start of the art droplet delivery techniques as well as develop new excitation techniques to interface with the system, such as photoactivation, or fluid mixing such as gas-fluid and fluid-fluid.
• Propose, prototype and lead future droplet-based delivery methods that are compatible with superconducting high repetition rate XFEL upgrades on the order of 10s to 1000s of kHz, where possible.
• Collaborate with internal staff and external user groups, supporting experiment planning and execution while also driving technical innovation to enhance LCLS’s experimental capabilities.
• Disseminate scientific outcomes through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Physical Chemistry, Applied Physics, or related field and 0-2 years of Background in microfluidics and/or mechatronics.
• Hands-on experience with X-ray spectroscopy and/or X-ray diffraction techniques.
• Ability to rapidly prototype and test new techniques and vet them for compatibility with X-ray instruments.
• Demonstrated record of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment.

Qualifications

• Experience working at X-ray free-electron laser or synchrotron radiation facilities.
• Experience developing complex sample delivery systems, particularly supporting droplet-based techniques.
• Experience with serial crystallography for biology and chemistry.
• Background in studies of redox-active biological or chemical systems.
• Scripting and data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB).

Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of X-ray instrumentation and techniques.

Benefits

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Pay

The expected pay range for this position is $118,000 - $175,000 per annum.

Schedule

This role is full-time and works standard business hours.