Scientific Research Associate - Support and leadership of an experimental project in the field of laser and plasma physics
The Institute of Fusion Energy and Nuclear Waste Management – Plasma Physics (IFN-1) conducts research and development programs on selected problems in high-temperature plasma physics, as well as materials research for fusion devices, as part of the national fusion program of the Helmholtz Association and the EUROfusion consortium. It also works on issues relating to the preparation of the scientific operations of the new large-scale experiments, ITER and W7-X. Both the scientific tasks and the project work are aimed at developing a new primary energy source for electricity generation. Among other things, IFN-1 carries out development, planning and design work to enable the respective experimental programs of the Institute of Plasma Physics and large-scale experiments such as W7-X, ASDEX and ITER by constructing unique diagnostic instruments that are not commercially available. This is organized in project form and typically extends over several years each. – [https://www.fz-juelich.de/de/ifn/ifn-1/forschung/lineare-plasma-anlagen](https://www.fz-juelich.de/de/ifn/ifn-1/forschung/lineare-plasma-anlagen)
Your Job
We are looking for a motivated scientific research associate to support and lead an experimental project in the field of laser and plasma physics. The focus is on the setup and commissioning of experiments with a linear plasma device. The project includes work in a regulated radiation area (controlled area/hot cell), although the main emphasis of the work is on technical setup and preparation outside the cells.
- Experimental setup: Planning, design and execution of experiments using a new linear plasma device
- Laser physics & diagnostics: Adaptation and integration of existing laser methods to the specific boundary conditions of the linear plasma device as well as to the structural and safety-related conditions of the hot cell
- Project management: Coordination of experimental work steps, scheduling, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and external service providers for the interior fit-out of the cell
- Work in the radiation area: Support for the installation and relocation of the plasma device into the hot cell. This includes participation in work in the controlled area (radiation protection), although the majority of preparatory and analytical work takes place outside the cells
Your Profile
- Completed degree in physics, engineering or a comparable field (master's or doctorate)
- Strong affinity for building experimental physics facilities and an understanding of the challenges of working in enclosed radiation areas (hot cells)
- Experience in planning and coordinating scientific projects
- Fundamental knowledge of laser or plasma physics is expressly desired but is not a mandatory requirement
- German: Level B1 is mandatory for safety-relevant communication, understanding radiation protection instructions, and communication in the controlled area (ideally supported by a certificate according to the [CEFR](https://go.fzj.de/languagerequirements))
- English: Good knowledge in speaking and writing (working and scientific language)
- Independent, structured way of working, a strong sense of responsibility and a pronounced safety culture
- Willingness and aptitude to work with radioactive samples in a controlled area
Our Benefits for You
- Meaningful tasks: The position offers responsible tasks at the interface between science, administration, business, and politics
- Vacation: You receive 30 days of vacation (depending on the chosen working time model) plus additional days off (e.g. between Christmas and New Year's)
- Flexibility: Flexible working hours in full-time with 39 hours per week allow you to to organize your working time individually
- Knowledge & further training: Your professional development is important to us – we provide targeted, individual support fo