Applications are invited for the position of Research Associate in Antihydrogen Physics.
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of antihydrogen physics to develop new Penning Trap techniques for use in improving accuracy of precision atomic physics measurements involving determination of magnetic field systematics. The successful applicant is expected to have practical experience in performing precision measurements of trapped charged particles in Penning traps. The candidate should ideally have analytical and computational skills sufficient to model and design next-generation traps for use in the ALPHA experiment. The role will be largely experimental in nature, and based at CERN in Switzerland.
The ALPHA experiment at CERN addresses a key challenge in physics – understanding the disparities between matter and antimatter that have shaped our matter-dominated universe. Focused on precise atomic physics measurements, the project aims to uncover minute differences between trapped antihydrogen and hydrogen atoms. In the realm of antimatter gravitation and spectroscopic studies, achieving the highest precision demands meticulous control and understanding of the magnetic environment.
The magnetic fields used for trapping antihydrogen atoms for both spectroscopy and gravitational study pose a unique challenge to accurately determining physical quantities of interest. Presently, ALPHA employs on-axis magnetometry techniques based on electron cyclotron resonance. This project aims to develop off-axis magnetometry and time-resolved magnetometry for use in improving our global knowledge of the magnetic fields in both active ALPHA experiments. The techniques developed will be used directly in experimental campaigns for ALPHA’s spectroscopy and gravitational measurements, as well as inform the design of Penning traps for use in next-generation ALPHA traps.
Based at CERN, this experimental initiative involves manipulating trapped electron plasmas for use as magnetometers. The successful candidate will also actively contribute to the broader ALPHA physics program, encompassing gravitational measurements and general spectroscopy campaigns.
Qualifications for the role include:
1. Substantial experimental experience with trapped ions or leptons, particularly in the realm of precision physics measurements, including both frequency and phase measurements of charged particle motions in these traps.
2. Proficiency in charged-particle simulation environments like GPT, Opera, and COMSOL.
3. Expertise in laboratory control software such as LabVIEW.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Access through contributing to the University’s social responsibility agenda, demonstrating a commitment to its policies, activities and delivery of initiatives including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The Department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016 for its commitment to achieving gender equality which positively promotes inclusivity for all. As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status. Appointment will be made on merit.
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Blended working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: William Bertsche
Email: william.bertsche@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
Jobtrain: 0161 850 2004 Jobtrain Support
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
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