Project Scientist Laser-Plasma Acceleration

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Project Scientist at the BELLA Center, in the Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics division. 

We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

The Project Scientist will contribute to research relevant to the development of compact laser-driven particle accelerators. This includes R&D for laser-plasma acceleration (LPA) of electrons in underdense targets and applications of these beams (high-energy physics applications, light-source drivers, bio-medical applications, free-electron laser physics, among others).

The Project Scientist will work as part of a collaborative research team supporting BELLA Center experimental efforts, which includes electron acceleration with the BELLA PW and 100-TW peak-power lasers, novel laser injection methods for generating high-brightness electron beams, plasma targets and diagnostics, beam transport methods, and radiation generation using LPA electron beams. 

You will:

• Conduct research supporting the development of laser-plasma acceleration of particle beams, and drive light sources such as the free-electron laser.
• Assist in troubleshooting and documenting issues on laser and accelerator equipment and associated systems. 
• Develop and implement solutions which include robust apparatus performance, adherence to safety regulation at the lab, while meeting the experimental needs of the program.
• Participate in the design and analysis of experimental campaigns using the BELLA laser beamlines.
• Document and communicate results of work in journal publications and oral presentations, and participate in meetings, conferences, and program reviews.
• Work collaboratively with BELLA Center and ATAP Division scientists, engineers, post-doctoral scholars, technicians, operational staff, and students.
• Adhere to DOE and LBNL’s safety guidelines and safety culture, and contribute to an inclusive and supportive work environment. 

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. in Physics or related field, plus postdoctoral research experience or equivalent breadth and depth of experience.
• Experience with multi-terawatt lasers
• Experience with charged particle beam transport and diagnostic development.  
• Experience performing plasma accelerator R&D, including a track record of publications in the field, conference presentations, publications in refereed journals, invited talks, etc.
• Ability to work closely in a team with other scientists, postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, and engineers.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaboration research team, both within and outside LBNL.
• Basic knowledge of particle optics and elements of accelerator physics.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and multi-tasking skills.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with all members of ATAP, including other scientists, engineers, postdoctoral scholars, and students.
• Ability to travel and present work at collaboration meetings, workshops, and conferences, including international travel.
• Ability to work effectively in a safety-focused environment and conduct work in accordance with safety rules and systems.
• Capability to be flexible and creative in pursuing new topics and carrying out forefront research in the area of laser-matter interactions and particle acceleration.

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by April 17, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type: This is a full-time 2 year, term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years.
• Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $8,158 - $12,158/month. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualifications and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, plus also aligned with the internal peer group. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.
• Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.