Instrument Scientist for ESS Test Beamline

at  The European Spallation Source

The Science Directorate at the European Spallation Source (ESS) invites applications for an instrument scientist for the dedicated Test beamline (TBL).
The Diffraction and Imaging Division is home to the instrument scientists and post-docs responsible for designing, constructing, and operating the DREAM, MAGiC, BEER, HEIMDAL, ODIN, and TBL instruments at ESS. New designs for a wide range of neutron instruments are being implemented to fully leverage the unique long-pulse time structure of the ESS neutron source. Currently, 15 instruments are under construction for ESS, with TBL set to be the first operational instrument.

DESCRIPTION OF TBL

The TBL is being constructed with the primary purpose of characterizing the target-reflector-moderator system and verifying the performance of the neutron source based on operating parameters such as proton beam power, stability, pulse length, and beam rastering, as well as the moderator conditions. An important aspect of this work will be comparing the measured and simulated neutronic performance of the moderator, providing a crucial reference for various neutron scattering instruments.
Additionally, the TBL will contribute to optimizing instruments and methods to fully exploit the unique long-pulse time structure of the ESS neutron source. It is designed to support the user program by aligning and characterizing single crystals, performing exploratory imaging, and conducting diffraction studies of samples intended for measurement with user instruments. The TBL will also function as a local characterization station, supporting technical developments in areas such as neutron optics, polarization, shielding, and detectors. As the facility evolves, the modular design of the TBL will allow for adaptations to meet new objectives, ensuring its continued relevance and utility in advancing neutron science. Due to flexibility of the instrument, a variety of detectors and sample environments can be fitted inside the experimental cave, allowing multipurpose measurements on not only thermal neutrons but also epithermal/fast neutrons and gamma rays.

QUALIFICATIONS

Essential qualifications and experience:

• PhD, within the subjects of physics, material science, engineering or chemistry
• Experience in Monte Carlo particle and neutron ray-tracing simulations
• Experience with different neutron detector technologies
• Bring new scientific ideas by utilizing TBL
• Experience in programming (python, C++ or similar) for large numbers of data analysis
• Ability to work collaboratively and individually
• Good interpersonal communication and presentation skills, and ability to interact effectively with staff and users at all levels.
• Flexibility to requests to work out-of-hours
• Responsible attitude to personal safety, and the safety of others
• Willingness to international travel

We will place great emphasis on personal suitability for the position and work environment. The evaluation will take into account, among other things, problem-solving and analytical skills, collaboration skills and initiative. A proactive approach and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are important.

Desirable experience:

• Experience with position-sensitive and/or time-of-flight neutron detectors
• Experience with time-of-flight neutron scattering
• Experience with user operation at a large-scale neutron facility
• Experience in developing neutron instrumentation
• Working knowledge of one or more of the data analysis/visualisation packages used within ESS (e.g. Python, Scipp etc.)

Experience of working in an international environment is preferred and excellent oral and written English skills are prerequisites. Our work environment is characterised by fast growth, a fast pace of work, and an international atmosphere with highly skilled personnel. You must therefore enjoy the diversity of such an environment and have a personality suited for the challenges it presents. Our work environment is exciting and forward thinking and relies heavily on personal initiative.

The instrument scientist will work closely with the Lead Scientist and Instrument Operations Engineer, forming the core instrument team. The instrument project is expected to run until 2025, followed by commissioning and operations. The selected candidate will participate in the final installation and integration of the TBL, assist with both cold and hot commissioning activities, and pursue an independent research program. The instrument scientist is expected to develop synergies with other neutron facilities and build links with universities.