Careers at LLE

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is seeking candidates for the position of Assistant Scientist in the Omega Experiments Group to lead high energy density nuclear physics experiments and inertial confinement fusion campaigns, to perform research and development of novel nuclear diagnostics, and to support neutron diagnostic operation on the OMEGA and OMEGA EP laser facilities. Laser Direct Drive implosions of DT cryogenic targets and laser-based nuclear physics experiments, which are key missions within the science-based Stockpile Stewardship Program (SSP) of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), are conducted on the Omega Laser Facility. The research scope of this position encompasses spectroscopy of scattered neutrons from implosion targets to infer a 4(pi) averaged areal density at stagnation, the design and execution of high energy density nuclear physics experiments to measure cross sections of nuclear reactions relevant to inertial confinement fusion, and the calibration of neutron detectors. The position requires a candidate with a working knowledge of neutron and gamma ray detectors to guide technical and engineering staff implementing initiatives in diagnostic automation, signal processing, and radiation shielding for operation in a high neutron yield environment. The successful candidate will interact routinely with leading experts in high energy density nuclear physics and inertial confinement fusion research conducting their experiments on the Omega Laser Facility.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead high energy density nuclear physics experiments and inertial confinement fusion campaigns on the Omega Laser Facility
• Develop advanced measurement techniques to diagnose the compressed DT fuel using state-of-the-art nuclear diagnostics
• Lead the development of future planned nuclear diagnostics required to achieve a full 3-D reconstruction of the compressed fuel at stagnation through extensive Monte Carlo simulations
• Provide expert diagnostic support of the high energy density nuclear physics experiments and inertial confinement fusion campaigns on the Omega Laser Facility, including nuclear diagnostic configuration, data collection, and analysis

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• PhD degree in Physics or closely related field (research background in experimental high energy density physics or inertial confinement fusion research is preferred)
• Knowledge of nuclear physics and detection methods and neutron and gamma ray shielding in a high-yield environment
• Advanced computational skills for designing experiments and analyzing data, including fluency in Monte Carlo techniques (e.g. MCNP or Geant4)
• Interpersonal skills suitable for working in a team-based, collaborative environment
• Strong written, communication, and organizational skills for preparation of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at workshops and conferences

The successful candidate will join the Omega Experiments group as an Assistant Scientist or a rank commensurate with experience.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 245775.

While applying online and creating their profile, applicants should upload the following additional documents:

• a cover letter
• a curriculum vitae and a list of publications

Applicant should arrange to have at least two letters of recommendation e-mailed to llehradmin@lle.rochester.edu . Please ask them to reference the job number to which you are applying.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) at the University of Rochester is a unique national resource with a premier high-power laser facility for research in inertial confinement fusion (ICF), high-energy-density physics (HEDP), and basic science. The Laboratory is performing ignition-related experiments on its own OMEGA Laser System, as well as the National Ignition Facility (NIF) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). Scientists from LLE have been instrumental in the development of experimental techniques and diagnostics while collaborating with scientists at Lawrence Livermore and other national laboratories on the key science campaigns leading to ignition and to better understanding of HEDP.

LLE is home to both the OMEGA and OMEGA EP Laser Systems. OMEGA is a 60-beam solid-state laser system capable of delivering 30-kJ, nanosecond UV pulses to a target. OMEGA EP is a short-pulse laser system capable of delivering up to 1-PW intensities (700 J in 700 fs). Research is conducted for LLE as well as other national laboratories and universities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The HEDP-Theory Group in LLE's Theoretical Division seeks a computational/theoretical physicist to carry out rigorous and high-impact researches in high-energy-density science important to both ICF and basic science.
• The successful candidate will focus on the development of machine-learning augmented orbital-free non-interacting and exchange-correlation free-energy density functionals for density-functional theory (DFT), software implementation and their applications to matter at warm-dense conditions by means of ab-initio molecular dynamics simulations and Kubo-Greenwood approach to characterize the equation of state, transport and optical properties of materials under extreme conditions.
• Close collaborations between HED theorists and experimentalists are being actively pursued at LLE.

DESIRED SKILLS OR EXPERIENCE:

• Experience with DFT codes such as Quantum-Espresso/ABINIT/VASP
• good interpersonal skills
• the willingness to work in a team
• the ability to communicate well in writing

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Ph.D. in quantum many-body physics, atomic and molecular physics, condensed matter physics, plasma physics, or a related area is required.

This project, funded by NSF, offers a competitive salary which will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

This Research Associate position will open in the spring 2023 (with some flexibility), and applications will be considered until the position is filled. The position will be funded for two years.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 241486.

In addition to the online application, qualified applicants should submit a dossier that includes a cover letter outlining how the applicant sees themselves contributing to the research project, a curriculum vitae and a list of publications. The applicant should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to LLE. All supplemental materials should be sent to the attention of:

Steven Stagnitto, Administrative Director Laboratory for Laser Energetics 250 East River Road Rochester, NY 14623-1299 Email: steven.stagnitto@rochester.edu Fax: 585-276-2420

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Theoretical Division at the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is planning to create an artificial intelligence/machine-learning (AI/ML) Group to significantly expand LLE's effort in applying ML tools to solve a variety of problems relevant to high-energy-density (HED) sciences, operate current laser facilities (OMEGA and OMEGA EP), as well as design and operate future HED facilities that will deliver ~100 of shots a day and will require sophisticated tools for facility operation, engineering, and data acquisition and analysis. LLE seeks an AI/ML expert to lead this group. The ideal candidate for this role should have a strong background in machine learning with focus on physical science and technology, with experience in leading teams and developing solutions that provide measurable outcomes. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in physics, astrophysics, computational physics, or a related field.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 244996.

While applying online and creating their profile, applicants should upload the following additional documents:

• a cover letter
• a curriculum vitae and a list of publications.
• at least three letters of recommendation
• a statement of research interests and accomplishments,
• a vision statement for the AI/ML group's future; and
• a separate Diversity and Inclusion Statement, indicating past experiences and future goals for promoting a work environment that values diversity and inclusion.

If you encounter difficulties in uploading documents please e-mail llehradmin@lle.rochester.edu for guidance.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) at the University of Rochester is seeking a Ph.D.-level individual in Optics, Physics, or Engineering to join the Laser System Science team. LLE is a unique national resource featuring the Omega laser facility, a premier high-energy laser user facility conducting experiments in Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF), High Energy Density Physics (HEDP) and basic science. The Omega facility is home to the OMEGA and OMEGA EP lasers. OMEGA is a 60-beam solid-state laser system capable of delivering 30-kJ, nanosecond UV pulses to a target for fusion experiments. Omega EP is a short-pulse laser system capable of delivering pulses of up to 1-PW power (700J in 700fs). LLE is also developing novel high-energy laser systems, including ultrabroadband and ultra-intense lasers. The Laser System Science team is charged with technical and operational oversight of the OMEGA and OMEGA EP lasers and also contributes to development of the next generation of high-energy and high-power laser systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Analyze large sets of laser diagnostic data to validate, calibrate, and refine laser system models, track long-term laser performance, and identify developing issues.
• Assist in overseeing the safe, efficient operation of the Omega laser facility to satisfy the demands of the user base while ensuring protection of the laser systems.
• Develop and maintain laser system models and laser system configuration tools. Perform complex laser modeling to support upgrades or development of new laser systems.
• Characterize laser system performance, including developing and maintaining laser diagnostics.
• Lead experimental campaigns on the lasers with the goals of improving understanding and enhancing laser system or diagnostic performance.
• Work with an interdisciplinary team to rapidly troubleshoot system performance issues in order to maximize facility availability and effectiveness.
• Lead commissioning of upgrades to the laser systems.
• Conduct applied research relevant to the Omega laser and future high-energy lasers; communicate research results in scientific journals and conference presentations.
• Morning and evening shift work is required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Ph.D. in Optics, Physics, or a relevant engineering field is required, with research in lasers or laser-based optical systems (especially solid-state lasers and amplifiers) desired.
• Ability to develop computer-based data analysis tools in MATLAB or Python (experience mining data from databases is a plus).
• Proficiency in data visualization and analyzing complex and often noisy data sets to spot historical trends and identify correlations.
• Understanding of optical physics and optical systems (laser systems and/or nonlinear optics highly desired).
• Ability to support multiple projects and priorities, and ability to troubleshoot laser performance issues in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to interact with scientists, engineers, technicians, and students.
• Demonstrated ability to be effective in a team environment.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 243544.

In addition to applying online, qualified applicants should submit a dossier that includes a cover letter outlining how the applicant sees themselves contributing to the research project, a curriculum vitae and a list of publications. The applicant should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to LLE. All materials should be sent to the attention of:

Steven Stagnitto, Administrative Director
Laboratory for Laser Energetics
250 East River Road
Rochester, NY 14623-1299
Email: steven.stagnitto@rochester.edu
Fax: 585-276-2420

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) at the University of Rochester is seeking a Ph.D.-level individual in Optics, Physics, or Engineering to join the Laser System Science team. LLE is a unique national resource featuring the Omega laser facility, a premier high-energy laser user facility conducting experiments in Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF), High Energy Density Physics (HEDP) and basic science. The Omega facility is home to the OMEGA and OMEGA EP lasers. OMEGA is a 60-beam solid-state laser system capable of delivering 30-kJ, nanosecond UV pulses to a target for fusion experiments. Omega EP is a short-pulse laser system capable of delivering pulses of up to 1-PW power (700J in 700fs). LLE is also developing novel high-energy laser systems, including ultrabroadband and ultra-intense lasers. The Laser System Science team is charged with technical and operational oversight of the OMEGA and OMEGA EP lasers and also contributes to development of the next generation of high-energy and high-power laser systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee the safe, efficient operation of the Omega laser facility to satisfy the demands of the user base while ensuring protection of the laser systems.
• Develop and maintain laser system models and laser system configuration tools. Perform complex laser modeling to support upgrades or development of new laser systems.
• Characterize laser system performance, including developing and maintaining laser diagnostics.
• Analyze large sets of laser diagnostic data to validate, calibrate, and refine laser system models, track long-term laser performance, and identify developing issues.
• Lead experimental campaigns with the goals of improving understanding and enhancing laser system or diagnostic performance.
Work with an interdisciplinary team to rapidly troubleshoot system performance issues in order to maximize facility availability and effectiveness.
• Lead commissioning of upgrades to the laser systems.
Conduct applied research relevant to the Omega laser and future high-energy lasers; communicate research results in scientific journals and conference presentations.
• Morning and evening shift work is required

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Ph.D. in Optics, Physics, or a relevant engineering field is required.
At least 5 years' experience is desired in industry or academia performing experimental research in lasers or laser-based optical systems (experience with solid-state lasers and amplifiers is highly desired).
• A comprehensive knowledge of optical physics and optical systems (laser systems and nonlinear optics highly desired).
• Ability to develop computer-based data analysis tools in MATLAB or Python, with experience querying databases a plus.
• Ability to support multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to interact with scientists, engineers, technicians, and students.
• Demonstrated ability to be effective in a team environment.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance

Diversity is a core value at LLE. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all students, staff, and faculty. We believe every member on our team enriches our diversity by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand and engage with the world, identify challenges, and to discover, design and deliver solutions. Salary and benefits are competitive and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 243390.

In addition to the online application, qualified applicants should submit a CV including a list of publications; a brief letter describing the candidate's academic background and interests; and should arrange for at least two letters of recommendation to be sent to ssta@lle.rochester.edu.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Theoretical Division at the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is planning to create an Artificial Intelligence/Machine-Learning (ML) Group to significantly expand LLE's effort in applying ML tools to solve a variety of problems relevant to high-energy-density (HED) sciences, operate current laser facilities (OMEGA and OMEGA EP), as well as design and operate future HED facilities that will deliver ~100 of shots per day and will require sophisticated tools for facility operation, engineering, and data acquisition and analysis. LLE seeks a junior-level member for this group at the Assistant Scientist level. The ideal candidate for this role should have a strong background in machine learning with focus on physical science and technology. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in physics, astrophysics, computational physics, or a related field.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 244997.

While applying online and creating their profile, applicants should upload the following additional documents:

• a cover letter
• a curriculum vitae and a list of publications.
• at least two letters of recommendation
• a statement of research interests and accomplishments,

If you encounter difficulties in uploading documents please e-mail llehradmin@lle.rochester.edu for guidance.

POSITION SUMMARY: LLE is looking for a scientist to lead experiments for pulsed-laser, material-interaction investigations.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Candidate must have a fundamental understanding of laser diagnostics and plasma diagnostics and hands-on knowledge of the inner workings of diagnostic equipment and a grasp of the state-of-the-art in the field of time-resolved and spatially resolved diagnostics. Hands-on experience developing and deploying diagnostics and diagnostic equipment in large lab settings is desired. A physics background in laser-material-plasma interactions is desired. Applicant must have experience interacting and working with multi-disciplinary team of scientist and engineers to accomplish complex goals.

QUALIFICATIONS: Candidate should have at least a Ph.D. in Physics or a physical science; they should have at least 5 years of post-graduate experience, and be a highly motivated self-starter. The preferred candidate should have some experience with technical project management.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 244303.

In addition to applying online, qualified applicants should submit a dossier that includes a cover letter outlining how the applicant sees themselves contributing to the research project, a curriculum vitae and a list of publications. The applicant should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to LLE. All materials should be sent to the attention of:

Steven Stagnitto, Administrative Director
Laboratory for Laser Energetics
250 East River Road
Rochester, NY 14623-1299
Email: steven.stagnitto@rochester.edu
Fax: 585-276-2420

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Integrated Modeling Group in LLE's Theoretical Division seeks a Computational Physicist (Assistant Scientist to Scientist position) to support the development and optimization of state-of-the-art multi-physics hydrodynamics codes relevant to Inertial Confinement Fusion.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The successful candidate will focus on code optimization through improved algorithms and parallelization, including adaptation of codes to GPUs.
• The candidate will also develop new or augmented physics packages.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Candidates should have a PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, Computational Physics or a related field.

Diversity is a core value at LLE. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all students, staff, and faculty. We believe every member on our team enriches our diversity by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand and engage with the world, identify challenges, and to discover, design and deliver solutions. Salary and benefits are competitive and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 243229.

In addition to the online application, qualified applicants should submit a CV including a list of publications; a brief letter describing the candidate's academic background and interests; and should arrange for at least two letters of recommendation to be sent to ssta@lle.rochester.edu.

POSITION SUMMARY: We are seeking a highly motivated individual to support the management of a multi-disciplinary program involving research & development in short-pulse lasers, plasma physics, aerodynamics in a wind tunnel, and novel diagnostic development within the Experimental Division. The successful candidate will be coordinating and supporting an internal LLE team and external industry scientists in aerodynamic modeling, benchtop prototyping of laser systems, engineering design of optical systems, and wind tunnel testing of hardware for a defense customer. The role will include the responsibility of meeting strict contractual reporting requirements, which consists of regular written technical reports and oral communication of the research team?s progress. Exploring further opportunities within the defense space will be encouraged. Some (5%) travel may be required for customer interfacing and on-site testing. Knowledge of high-intensity laser hardware, laser engineering, relay optics, laser-plasma diagnostics, optical data analysis, and computational fluid dynamics modeling would all be beneficial for the position. Experience in the defense industry is preferred.

The successful candidate will report directly to the Program Manager at LLE.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the Program Manager with all customer interactions.
• Interface with government customers and meeting reporting requirements and deadlines.
• Coordinate a multi-disciplinary research program within the experimental division.
• Report on emerging opportunities within the DoD and industry.
• Ensure work requirements meet quality assurance and general laboratory safety standards.
• Assist the Program Manager with hiring added personnel as needed.
• Provide technical leadership and scientific support.
• Work with the administrative personnel to manage budgets.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Requires a Ph.D. (Physics, Optics, or Engineering) with a minimum of 6 years relevant experience.
• Has a demonstrated track record and extensive experience leading R&D teams.
• Generated a strong list of lead-authored publications (published, accepted, or submitted).
• Demonstrates excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Comes with strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Hands-on experience in working in research partnerships, either through research participation or coordination role.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently in conceptualizing, initiating, and evaluating research opportunities.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to evolving research goals.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Background in lasers, optics, and laser diagnostics.
• Experience in coordinating existing DoD-funded research programs and in developing new DOD-funded research programs.
• Demonstrated ability to establish, nurture, and execute technical partnerships with external partners (university, industry, and national laboratory).
• Ability to communicate well with a wide-ranging set of stakeholders.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 244890.

In addition to applying online, qualified applicants should submit a dossier that includes a cover letter outlining how the applicant sees themselves contributing to the research project, a curriculum vitae and a list of publications. The applicant should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to LLE. All materials should be sent to the attention of:

Steven Stagnitto, Administrative Director
Laboratory for Laser Energetics
250 East River Road
Rochester, NY 14623-1299
Email: steven.stagnitto@rochester.edu
Fax: 585-276-2420

POSITION SUMMARY:The Experimental Division at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) seeks candidates at the Staff Scientist level who can contribute to the development of new science using the unique tritium capabilities at LLE who can bring new capabilities to ongoing global magnetic and inertial confinement fusion missions, who will conduct experiments and/or perform simulations using the facilities at LLE, and who will engage with and mentor graduate students in the Division. In addition to a good understanding of vacuum and material science or chemical engineering, the successful candidate should have good interpersonal skills, a willingness to work in a team, and the ability to communicate well in writing.

QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates should have a Ph.D. in an appropriate sub-field of physics, experience as a postdoc or equivalent position, and demonstrated their expertise by publishing their research in peer-reviewed journals.

Candidates are invited to apply online at www.rochester.edu/jobopp.
Please apply to Job Opening ID 242244.

In addition to applying online, qualified applicants should submit a dossier that includes a cover letter outlining how the applicant sees themselves contributing to the research project, a curriculum vitae and a list of publications. The applicant should also arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to LLE. All materials should be sent to the attention of:

Steven Stagnitto, Administrative Director
Laboratory for Laser Energetics
250 East River Road
Rochester, NY 14623-1299
Email: steven.stagnitto@rochester.edu
Fax: 585-276-2420