Assistant Physicist – Experimental Nuclear/Atomic Physics – Fundamental Symmetries

The Fundamental Symmetry Group in the Physics Division at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a junior staff position in experimental nuclear/atomic physics. We are especially looking for candidates whose research program aligns with the 2023 Long Range Plan for Nuclear Physics, focusing on lab-based tests of fundamental symmetries via precision experiments. The ideal candidate is expected to support and advance the on-going research program of the Fundamental Symmetries Group and to develop an innovative research plan to further enhance the reach of experimental fundamental symmetries tests and to probe the realm of physics beyond the Standard Model.

We aim to appoint at the rank of Assistant Physicist (equivalent to a tenure-track Assistant Professor), with a start date as early as April 2025. Applications received by November 22nd, 2024, will receive our fullest consideration.

The Fundamental Symmetries group at Argonne employs several approaches to detect evidence for physics beyond the Standard Model. Our current experimental program focuses on searches for CP-violating permanent electric dipole moments, precision measurements of parity violation in the weak force, and developments toward a next-generation, beyond-ton-scale neutrino-less double beta decay experiment. A major theme in our work is employing cold atom and molecule techniques to enhance the sensitivity of searches for new physics. For example, cold molecular beams of thallium fluoride provide exceptional sensitivity to the proton’s electric dipole moment through electric field enhancement in this polar molecule, and laser cooled and trapped radium-225 atoms offer unprecedented systematic control and sensitivity to the nuclear electric dipole moment due to the nuclear octupole deformation of radium-225.

The Physics Division offers unique opportunities and infrastructure to perform future precision experiments that benefit from the use of radioisotopes in fundamental symmetries research. Dedicated radiochemistry laboratories allow for handling of short-lived species, and Argonne’s Tandem Linac Accelerator System (ATLAS) provides opportunity for the production, detection, and study of promising radioisotopes.

Staff Scientists of the Physics Division are fully dedicated to research, focused on their individual yet complementary research programs, and are strongly encouraged to seek cross-divisional and interdisciplinary collaboration to advance their research. They also contribute to the Fundamental Symmetry group, Physics Division, and scientific community at large through service, but without the added responsibilities of teaching or user facility support duties.

The group’s research program is supported by funding from the US DOE Office of Nuclear Physics, and additional resources are available to develop new research programs, e.g., through Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) funding, or through external Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) from the DOE Office of Nuclear Physics.

Application Process:

• PhD in Nuclear Physics or Atomic Physics or a closely related field

• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.

• Preferred: minimum of 2 years of research experience as a postdoctoral or equivalent appointee

• Preferred: previous research experience in precision experiments and fundamental symmetry tests using cold or ultra-cold atoms or molecules

RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years, Masters and 3+ years, or a PhD, or equivalent

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.