Project Scientist - Laser Liason

About the role

SSRL, a SLAC Directorate at Stanford University, is a national scientific user facility providing synchrotron radiation for research in biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, material science, medicine, and physics. SSRL operates and maintains the 3 GeV electron storage ring SPEAR3, the associated injector facility, and synchrotron radiation beam lines on SPEAR3.

SSRL is seeking an outstanding laser scientist to advance time-resolved X-ray science across SLAC’s photon science facilities. Time-resolved techniques are a strategic priority for SSRL, a core capability of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), and a foundational research area of the Stanford PULSE Institute, a joint SLAC–Stanford research institute within the Energy Sciences Directorate. The successful candidate will lead the development, deployment, and operation of advanced laser pump capabilities that enable cutting-edge X-ray experiments at SSRL and LCLS. This role will bridge state-of-the-art laser research and development with user-driven X-ray science, helping expand experimental opportunities for the scientific community and supporting SLAC’s leadership in ultrafast science.

Note: The Project Scientist role is a fixed-term staff position. It is a three-year appointment beginning immediately, with the possibility of extension contingent upon project needs and funding. Applicants must provide a completed PhD degree or confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with beamline staff to design, develop, deploy, and operate a high-power mid-infrared (MIR) laser for pump-probe experiments at SSRL beamline 17-2.
• Support and maintain the system during user-led pump probe experiments.
• Develop robust, high-powered MIR laser sources to enable new classes of pump-probe experiments for LCLS-II and LCLS-II-HE user programs to support forefront research in materials science and chemistry.
• Design, build, and characterize MIR laser systems at PULSE in the Arrillaga Science Center laboratories to support the development of new MIR generation schemes and integration with SSRL and LCLS research programs.
• Serves as a System Laser Safety Officer (SLSO) for relevant laser laboratories and beamlines at SSRL, LCLS, and PULSE.
• Commission newly deployed systems at SSRL and LCLS, optimize performance during initial user experiments, establish operational procedures for routine use, and provide ongoing technical consultation and troubleshooting support.
• Gather user feedback to guide future system enhancements and next-generation development.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in physics, optics, condensed matter physics, engineering or related fields, with at least two years of postdoctoral experience in pump-probe measurements, ultrafast laser systems, or nonlinear optics.
• Demonstrated expertise in high-power THz and/or MIR laser systems.
• Research/publication record commensurate with level of work experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to convey complex technical concepts.
• Ability to write clear technical documentation and user manuals.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
• Ability to work in a team environment as well as work unsupervised.
• Ability to collaborate across organizations and manage/lead cross-functional efforts in a fast-paced and dynamic research environment.
• Demonstrated ability to conceptualize designs and strong analytical and problem-solving skills combined with creative and innovating thinking.