Experimental High Energy Particle Physics (1659457) - Postdoc at University College London

The AWAKE project at CERN is currently running to demonstrate proton-driven plasma wakefield acceleration. Given the possibility of the production of high energy electrons over short distances, we are considering applications of this scheme. Possibilities are very high energy electron-proton collisions or fixed-target experiments to e.g. search for dark photons. Given the success of AWAKE so far, a future Run 2 is also under development. We are seeking a postdoctoral research associate who will develop ideas for applications of the AWAKE scheme to particle physics experiments as well as contribute to the development of AWAKE Run 2. This can include development of the particle physics case of future experiments, their detector or accelerator layout or all of these. The successful candidate will also lead the design and simulation of the accelerated electron beam diagnostic for AWAKE Run 2. The candidate will work within the UCL AWAKE team, including two new PhD students dedicated to this project, as well as with our international partners. 

The applicant should have or be about to receive a PhD in accelerator, plasma or high energy physics. The applicant should have extensive experience in one of particle physics detector simulation, accelerator simulations or plasma wakefield experiments. Candidates should also have excellent written and verbal communication. The candidate will be expected to undertake travel to CERN and other collaborators. 

This position is funded by the Leverhulme Trust for 3 years from 1 October 2017. Appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at research assistant Grade 6B (salary £29,809-£31,432 per annum) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.