Postdoctoral Research Associate: Optics and Spectroscopy

Title:

306-NN - Postdoctoral Research Associate

Business Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate: Optics and Spectroscopy

Additional Titles:

Location:

Employee Type:

Admin. Professional (+) (Fixed Term)

Job Family:

Faculty - Academic - Not OT Eligible

Position Details:

Summary of Duties:

The Spokane-based Applied Sciences Laboratory (ASL) of the Institute for Shock Physics (ISP) at Washington State University is a contract research organization. We conduct a broad range of applied science and technology projects for government agencies and corporations, including technology transfer for commercial applications. Our research activities span the physical sciences, engineering, and biomedical sciences.

Within the physical sciences, many of our experiments focus on optics and spectroscopy, utilizing a variety of lasers (e.g., pulsed/cw high energy/power lasers, frequency doubled/tripled/ quadrupled lasers, optical parametric amplifiers, femtosecond lasers, cw laser diodes, etc.). We also use a wide array of optical detection and analysis apparatus, including biased and amplified photodiodes, photomultipliers, APD’s, image intensifiers, lock-in amplifiers, and other state-of-the-art electro-optic instrumentation.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Perform a variety of laser-based optical spectroscopy measurements (e.g., Raman, fluorescence, fluorescence lifetime).

• Take the lead in the design, development, and use of optical equipment and systems, for optical measurements and other laser-based diagnostics.

• Participate in the design and development of research methodologies for a broad range of experimental projects.

• Independently define and complete experimental projects and tasks.

• Conduct and analyze research experiments, document processes and procedures, and prepare reports and publications as appropriate.

Required Qualifications:

A strong, hands-on experimental background is essential for this position. The required professional qualifications and personal attributes are:

• A recent Ph.D. degree in Physics, Optics, Chemistry, or related field with a strong experimental background in optical physics, optics, lasers, or optoelectronics

• Strong academic and research background related to optical experiments and excellent problem-solving skills

• Hands-on experience with optical spectroscopy techniques, data acquisition, and data analysis

• Graduate or post-graduate experience at a U.S. Academic Institution or National Laboratory

• Good oral and written communication skills (i.e., ability to engage in scientific discussions and clearly express and understand ideas, and ability to summarize research results in a succinct written manner)

• Demonstrated ability to perform independent research

• Critical thinking, good judgment, clear sense of purpose, attention to detail, and accountability

• Must be able to obtain a badge at U.S. Department of Defense facilities to gain access to restricted areas/information.

Preferred Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will also have experience with Raman spectroscopy; optical trapping; chemometrics, and analysis automation; and/or Vacuum equipment.

Additional Information:

Area/College: College of Arts and Sciences
Department Name: ISP/Applied Sciences Laboratory
City, State, Zip: Spokane, WA 99202
Department Link: asl.wsu.edu
Monthly Salary: Salary range $5,000 - $5,416 and is commensurate with qualifications and experience
FTE: 100%
Tenure Track: No
Screening Begin Date: Screening of applications will begin on July 6, 2022 and will remain ongoing until a successful applicant has been identified.
Background Check: This position has been designated by the department to require a background check.

Application Instructions: Applicants must attach the following documents to their online application: 1) resume and 2) cover letter to the attention of Dr. Hergen Eilers . Application materials should clearly communicate how the applicant meets all required qualifications and additional requirements. Applicants are required to include contact information for professional references within the application.

Required Documents:

• Cover letter to the attention of Dr. Hergen Eilers

• Detailed resume

Time Type:

Full time

Position Term:

12 Month

WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EDUCATOR AND EMPLOYER. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veteran, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply.

WSU employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

WSU is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resource Services: 509-335-4521 (v), Washington State TDD Relay Service: Voice Callers: 1-800-833-6384; TDD Callers: 1-800-833-6388, 509-335-1259(f), or [email protected] .