Postdoctoral Researcher in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) for advanced tuning and diagnosis of particle accelerators.
The Accelerator Operations and Physics (AOP) Group of the Accelerator Systems Division (ASD), Advanced Photon Source (APS) is hiring a postdoctoral researcher for a multi-year appointment.
The postdoctoral researcher will work to develop and deploy advanced AI/ML methods for analysis, tuning, and control of particle beams and accelerator systems, with applications to the APS injector and the newly-upgraded APS storage ring. This work will explore applications of LLMs to accelerators, specifically, use of agentic AI to support intelligent system analysis, aid operator decision-making, automate complex workflows, and enable more adaptive approaches to machine tuning, diagnostics, and fault response. Experimental work on the existing APS injector accelerator complex and the new APS storage ring will be done to test the methods and assess their usefulness for accelerator operation.
Position Requirements
PhD completed in the past 5 years or soon-to-be completed in accelerator physics or a related field is strongly preferred. PhD graduates in other branches of physical sciences, or in math, computer science, and electric engineering who have an interest in accelerator physics will also be considered.
Strong programming skills.
Proficiency in the Python programming language.
Working knowledge of UNIX or Linux.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
Experience with machine learning and accelerator operation.
Experience working with complex algorithms.
Experience using computing clusters for simulation and data analysis.
Experience with accelerator modeling and simulation codes, such as Elegant and Cheetah.
Experience with SDDS, Tcl/Tk, and scripting in Linux environment.
Job Family
PostdoctoralJob Profile
Postdoctoral AppointeeWorker Type
Long-Term (Fixed Term)Time Type
Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $72,879.00-$121,465.00.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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Skills Required
- Strong programming skills
- Proficiency in Python
- Working knowledge of UNIX or Linux
- PhD completed in the past 5 years or soon-to-be completed (accelerator physics or related field preferred)
- Experience with machine learning and accelerator operation
- Experience working with complex algorithms
- Experience using computing clusters for simulation and data analysis
- Experience with accelerator modeling and simulation codes (e.g., Elegant, Cheetah)
- Experience with SDDS, Tcl/Tk, and scripting in a Linux environment
What We Do
Argonne National Laboratory, one of the U.S. Department of Energy's national laboratories for science and engineering research, employs 3,400 employees, including 1,400 scientists and engineers, three-quarters of whom hold doctoral degrees.
