Postdoctoral Researcher: Advanced Studies on Fusion Materials using UED and XFEL

SLAC NATIONAL ACCELERATOR LABORATORY • 2575 SAND HILL ROAD • MENLO PARK • CALIFORNIA • 94025 • USA

Operated by Stanford University for the U.S. Department of Energy

Postdoctoral Position at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher

Location: High Energy Density Science Division, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Start Date: Feb.1, 2025

Duration: 2 years

Overview:

The High Energy Density Science Division at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory invites applications

for a postdoctoral researcher to join a pioneering research team studying how radiation-induced effects

impact the phonon properties of W-Re alloys. These alloys are featured by unique transport and mechanical

properties, making them attractive for use as the first-wall materials for nuclear fusion reactors. Our goal is

to validate fundamental modeling of these materials under extreme fusion environments. This research will

conduct a new class of pump-probe experiments capable of characterizing materials’ behavior with atomic-

scale temporal and spatial resolutions. These pump-probe experiments will utilize the state-of-the-art time-

resolved scattering techniques based on ultrafast electrons and high-brightness X-rays from the Linac

Coherent Light Source at SLAC. Details of our measurement techniques can be found in Science Advances

10, eadk9051(2024). This position offers a unique opportunity to lead innovative research at the forefront

of materials science and fusion energy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Experimental Efforts: Design, execute, and analyze experiments using ultrafast electron

diffraction (UED) and X-ray Free Electron Laser (XFEL) to investigate the ultrafast materials

behavior of W-Re alloys implanted with radiation effects.

• Collaborative Research: Work closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists at SLAC and

Stanford University to advance the understanding of fusion materials.

• Data Analysis: Utilize advanced computational tools for data interpretation and contribute to the

development of new methodologies.

• Publication and Communication: Prepare research findings for publication in peer-reviewed

journals and present results at conferences and workshops.

Qualifications:

• Recent Ph.D. in materials science, ultrafast science, condensed matter physics, or a related

discipline

• Prior experience with irradiation damage and nanofab-relevant techniques (e.g. TEM, SEM, FIB)

is a strong plus

• Proficient written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to author scientific reports

and publications, and deliver scientific presentations

• Effective interpersonal skills necessary to collaborate in a team environment

• Ability to perform independent research

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

1. A cover letter outlining your research experience and how it aligns with the goals of this project.

2. Curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications.

3. Contact information for one to two references.

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Contact Information: PI: Dr. Mianzhen Mo, Email [email protected]

Google scholar of the PI: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=VTTKyIoAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao