Post-doc for ESS neutron test beamline at HZB

The Science Directorate at the European Spallation Source (ESS) invites applications for a Post-doc for the ESS neutron test beamline located at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie (HZB).

Description of division
The Neutron Instruments Division lies within the Science Directorate and currently consists of 9 instrument scientists and post-docs designing, constructing and then operating the neutron instruments of the ESS. New designs for a wide range of neutron instruments are in the process of being developed, optimized to take full advantage of the long-pulse time structure of the neutron source. A number of these instrument concepts are now entering their construction phase. The ESS instrument scientists have the experience and skills required to perform and lead the development of these innovative neutron instruments and the subsequent construction projects.

Main responsibilities
The primary task will be to run and maintain the ESS test beamline at the HZB and support and take part in efforts to develop and test new concepts at the test beamline in close collaboration with ESS instrument scientists and interested groups from ESS partner labs. The ESS test beamline at HZB is now operational and has been designed to replicate the long-pulse structure of the future ESS source. The successful candidate will contribute to the design of relevant instruments and add-ons with a particular focus on wavelength-frame multiplication and imaging techniques at pulsed neutron sources. This includes methods for spatially resolved measurements with polarised neutrons at Bragg edges and with modulated beams for resolving magnetic structures, microscopic structures and crystalline features in imaging modes. A strong participation is expected in those development projects, involving also experimental and data analysis work at and with other partner laboratories of ESS.

The instrument suite at ESS is being developed in close consultation with the European user community and the successful candidate is expected to consult with this community in order to develop the designs and scientific case for methods and add-ons under investigation at the ESS test beamline in collaboration with test beamline users and the Neutron Instruments Division. The successful candidate will collaborate with colleagues in ESS partner countries, working on the design of the relevant experiments and required hardware and will also be expected to develop his/her own ideas in this area to bring about the best possible approaches and solutions for addressing cutting-edge science. The selected candidate will play an active role in running and maintaining the ESS test beamline, as well as in developing long-pulse techniques, so that ESS instruments can profit from them.

He/she will work under joint supervision of the head of the Department for Methods for Characterization of Transport Phenomena in Energy Materials at HZB and the head of the Neutron Instruments Division at the ESS. More than half the time of the selected candidate will be devoted to conducting experiments at the ESS test beamline at HZB, together with collaborators both from ESS and ESS partner labs. Synergies and close collaboration with other groups at HZB are also encouraged. 

Qualifications?
Academic qualification: PhD in one of the physical sciences 

Essential: Experience in neutron scattering experiments, a proactive approach and ability to work both independently and in a team environment, and a keen interest in the development of neutron instrumentation.

Desirable: Experience in instrument design or Monte Carlo simulation of instruments, post-doctoral experience in operating and developing a neutron instrument, particularly for time-of-flight and/or imaging applications. 

You have the ability to deal with a changing environment and can build team spirit. You know the value of consulting others and communicate proactively. To be successful in this position it is important to be able to share your expertise and knowledge with others, to have an analytical mindset and the ability to probe for further information or greater understanding of problems. Experience of working in an international environment is essential. Excellent oral and written English skills are a prerequisite; knowledge of German would be an advantage.

What ESS can offer 
At ESS we offer people with talent and passion a unique opportunity to be involved in the development and building of a world leading facility for materials research.?Besides attractive employment and relocation conditions, the flexibility to balance work life with private life and good opportunities to further enhance your skills; you will also enjoy being part of an organisational culture that promotes and supports internal career growth.

Duration & Location
The position is a 2-year temporary Post-doc position. Your work place will be situated 40% in Lund, Sweden, and 60% in Berlin, Germany.?

Start date
The position is to be filled as soon as possible. 

Application & Contact
Please provide your curriculum vitae and covering letter in English by clicking on “apply” and following the instructions. Please note we only accept applications via the ESS website.

The deadline for applications is 13 April, 2014.

For further information regarding the position, please contact Ken Andersen, ken.andersen[at]esss.se. For further information regarding the recruitment process, please contact Linda Sima, linda.sima[at]esss.se.

We look forward to receiving your application.