Search #: 495067
Work type: Full-time
Location: Storrs Campus
Categories: Postdoctoral Research Associates

JOB SUMMARY

The University of Connecticut Particle and Nuclear Physics Group invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in support of our efforts within the Super BigBite Spectrometer (SBS) Collaboration in Jefferson Lab’s Experimental Hall A, led by Professor Andrew Puckett. The research is focused on precision studies of nucleon structure at large momentum transfers in medium-energy electron-nucleus scattering. The SBS is a collection of apparatus designed for the study of high-momentum transfer (Q²) two-particle coincidence reactions at the highest luminosities that Jefferson Lab’s Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF) is capable of delivering. There are presently seven fully approved experiments that make use of the SBS equipment, and one conditionally approved experiment. The physics program of SBS emphasizes measurements of proton and neutron electromagnetic form factors and transverse single-spin asymmetries in semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS), at large values of Q². The SBS equipment is being installed in Hall A during the spring and summer of 2021, with the running of the first group of experiments expected to begin in September 2021. The UConn group is heavily involved in all aspects of the SBS program, and our primary responsibilities include the preparation of a Ring Imaging Cherenkov (RICH) detector for use in several of the planned SBS experiments, and the event reconstruction, data analysis, and Monte Carlo simulation software for the entire program.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will be expected to play a lead role in the group’s software development efforts, to support the running and data analysis of the first group of SBS experiments through the fall of 2021, and to lead the testing, preparation, installation, commissioning and operation of the RICH detector for the SBS SIDIS experiment, currently expected to begin late in 2022 or early 2023. The Associate will be stationed at Jefferson Lab, with occasional visits to UConn as needed, and will also help supervise the efforts of the group’s graduate students stationed at the lab.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A Ph.D. (or equivalent foreign degree) in experimental nuclear, particle, or high-energy physics (or closely related field), completed before the anticipated start date of the position.
• Demonstrated proficiency in C++ programming and standard software tools and libraries used in particle and nuclear physics (CERN’s ROOT and GEANT4).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• The ideal candidate will have expertise in nuclear, particle, and hadronic physics using electromagnetic probes.
• Working knowledge of the theory and phenomenology of fixed-target electron-nucleus scattering at multi-GeV energies, demonstrated through scholarly publications and/or doctoral dissertation research.
• Experience or expertise in Particle detectors, including but not limited to threshold and/or imaging Cherenkov detectors; micro-pattern gas detectors such as Gas Electron Multipliers (GEMs), electromagnetic and hadronic calorimeters, scintillation detectors, and photomultiplier tubes
• Experience or expertise in analog and digital electronics and high-speed data acquisition systems for large-scale, accelerator-based nuclear and particle physics experiments
• Experience or expertise in fast event reconstruction algorithms for detectors commonly used in particle and nuclear physics.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A demonstrated ability to work effectively within medium-large collaborations
• A demonstrated ability to meet deadlines.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

The desired start date is August 27, 2021. The initial appointment at UConn is for one year, renewable for up to two additional years, contingent upon satisfactory performance, mutual agreement, and availability of funds.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #495067 to upload a resume, cover letter, publication list, and a statement of research interests (not to exceed 3 pages). Please arrange for three (3) letters from professional references to be sent to Prof. Andrew Puckett (andrew.puckett@uconn.edu). Questions about the position should also be directed to Prof. Andrew Puckett. Evaluation of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

The group and the SBS/Hall A collaborations are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and research environment and recruiting a diverse research workforce, and qualified candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on April 9, 2021.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University’s teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn’s ranking as one of the nation’s top research universities. UConn’s faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.

Advertised: Feb 25 2021 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: Apr 09 2021 Eastern Daylight Time