2024-10-13
Princeton University
Other
/yr
employee
contract
Princeton
New Jersey
08540
United States
Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate
Description: The Chemical and Biological Engineering Department at Princeton University is seeking a postdoctoral or more senior researcher position to advance the understanding of liquid metal plasma-facing materials and first wall concepts for fusion energy devices through surface science experiments. Studies under the controlled conditions of ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) surface science facilities enable: (i) measurements of surface composition, structure, and thermal stability using AES, LEIS, XPS, and vibrational spectroscopy; (ii) quantitative determination of the flux and fluence of incident atoms, ions, and gases; and (iii) quantitative analysis of deuterium (D) retention and thermal stability of the retained D using TPD. Surfaces will be exposed to ion beams with well-controlled energies and incident angles for benchmarking and validation of theoretical calculations and computational physics and chemistry modeling of important surface processes occurring at plasma-material interfaces in fusion plasma edges, i.e., reflection, retention, and sputtering. The effects of B, C, O, and W impurities in lithium (Li) films on refractory metal substrates will be investigated to probe the influence of the amount of the impurity and combinations of impurities on the chemical and physical properties of these films. Sub-monolayer and monolayer films will be studied to probe interfacial chemistry with the substrate relevant to wetting and dry-out, while thicker films probe bulk properties. Helium retention in solid and liquid Li surfaces may also be probed. Qualified candidates should have a Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, or in a relevant engineering field, with an extensive background and training in the operation of a wide range of surface science methods, with emphasis on HRXPS, LEIS, AES, LEED, TPD, HREELS, Raman scattering, and SEM. Qualified candidates should possess experience for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of UHV instruments and chambers, including those for PVD. Additional background and training in plasma and plasma-materials interactions is preferred. A demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and to mentor graduate students is desired. The candidate is expected to have good management skills relevant to a multi-user environment, good communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. The department values diversity among its members, is committed to building a culturally diverse intellectual community with varying viewpoints, and strongly encourages applications from members of groups who are often underrepresented in the applicant pool. We seek to create a climate that embraces excellence and diversity, with a commitment to research, teaching, and mentoring that will enhance the work of the department. Applicants should apply at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/36781 and include a Cover letter, CV (including a summary of technical skills), list of publications, research interest statement (a discussion of past research and expertise) and contact information for three references. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. The Term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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