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Cornell University, Cornell Laboratory for Accelerator-based Sciences and Education

Position ID:
Cornell-CLASSEPhysics-VACUUMSCIENTIST [#30366]
Position Title: 
Vacuum Scientist
Position Type:
Other
Position Location:
Ithaca, New York 14853, United States of America
Subject Areas: 
Physics / Accelerator Physics
Materials Science / Engineering
Appl Deadline:
deleted (posted 2025/08/12, listed until 2026/02/12)
Position Description:
   

*** this position has been closed and new applications are no longer accepted. ***

Position Description

The Cornell Laboratory for Accelerator-based Sciences and Education (CLASSE) is an internationally recognized research center that includes a variety of research accelerators and a high-energy synchrotron source that provides high intensity X-Ray beams and state-of-the-art instrumentation to scientists and students from university, government, and industrial labs around the world. Groups conduct research in areas ranging from biology, physics, and chemistry to mechanical and structural engineering, advanced manufacturing, environmental science, materials science, and cultural heritage.

 CLASSE is seeking a Ph.D.-level scientist to work with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team to support and advance the ultra-high vacuum systems and infrastructure required to operate the accelerator systems, including the extensive synchrotron vacuum system that is over 760 meters in circumference. The successful candidate will serve as a staff scientist supporting the development and maintenance of new and existing vacuum system infrastructure, in support of extensive and varied research programs funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense (DoD), and industry. The vacuum scientist will actively contribute to the development of next-generation accelerators, vacuum technology and techniques. 

Responsibilities
  •  Integral member of an engaged and competent team in support of an active user community, including users from DoD, industry and academia, who engage in X-Ray techniques to characterize various materials systems. 
  • Creatively contribute to the development of new synchrotron vacuum systems and techniques, including experimental hardware, performance monitoring and data analysis.  
  • Build and maintain effective working relationships with multiple stakeholders, including facility users, funding agencies, and collaborators at other institutions. 
  • Maintain individual record of scholarship and contribute to the scholarly output of the lab through internal research highlights, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and presentations at national and international conferences.  
  • Mentor students, staff, and researchers in accelerator vacuum science systems and techniques. 

Essential Qualifications 
  • Ph.D. or equivalent in physics, materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related field and 2 years post-Ph.D. experience. 
  • Interest and ability to work in a multidisciplinary research environment.  
  • Record of scientific publications and achievement. 
  • Passion for contributing to an environment that builds individual and organizational effectiveness. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical experts, operations staff, and researchers at all levels, including students, postdocs, interns, and facility users.  
  • Experience with complex experimental instrumentation. • Proficiency in science communication; written and oral, formal and informal. 
Preference will be given to applicants with a background in physics, materials science, or mechanical engineering, particularly those with extensive experience at accelerator research facilities. Subject matter expertise aligned with development of new vacuum systems and technology, and a track record of effectively maintaining existing vacuum systems is preferred. Proficiency with diffraction techniques and experience analyzing large experimental datasets is also an asset. 

The initial appointment is for three years and can be renewed based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. For further information about the position, please contact Darren Dale at darren.dale@cornell.edu. 

A complete application will include the following material: 
  • Cover letter 
  • Curriculum Vitae 
  • List of Publications 
  • Statement of Research summarizing examples of recent research, and areas of interest for future work, especially involving vacuum science, materials science and/or mechanical engineering.  
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation. 

Located on the Cornell University campus in New York State, CHESS serves a world-wide user community of materials scientists, structural biologists, chemists, physicists, and engineers. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Cornell's inclusive community of scholars, students and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery and engagement. 

No visa sponsorship is available for this program.


Employment Assistance:

For specific questions about the position or application process, please contact the Recruiter listed in the job posting or for general questions email mycareer@cornell.edu.

If you require an accommodation for a disability in order to complete an employment application or to participate in the recruiting process, you are encouraged to contact Cornell Office of Civil Rights at voice (607) 255-2242, or email at accommodations@cornell.edu.

Applicants that do not have internet access are encouraged to visit your local library, or local Department of Labor. 

Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement by clicking here. This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant.

EEO Statement:

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. 

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRRA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Pay Ranges:

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

  • Prior relevant work or industry experience.
  • Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position.
  • Academic Discipline (faculty pay ranges reflects 9-month annual salary)
  • Unique applicable skills.


Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Research statement
  • Publication list
  • Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site help popup)
And anything else requested in the position description.

Further Info:
classe.cornell.edu
email address
 
134 Newman Lab
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14853