Job Description

Summary of Duties:

This position would be ideal for an experimentalist with an academic background in condensed matter physics. Prior experience in shock wave compression science is not required. The ISP provides in-depth training in shock wave physics; however, strong hands-on experimental skills and a temperament to perform single event experiments are essential.

ISP research scientists use shock wave compression to achieve the most extreme thermodynamic states of matter in the laboratory. This includes very large compressions (up to 2x solid density), high temperatures (including shock induced melting), and large deformations on very short time scales (picosecond to microsecond). These unique high pressures conditions result in a rich array of physical and chemical changes. The near instantaneous transition to a high stress state associated with shock wave compression is probed using time-resolved (ns resolution) laser interferometry, allowing material processes to be examined in real time.

The ISP offers world class facilities and expertise for training and research in shock wave physics. As a result, ISP graduates and postdoctoral research associates have moved on to successful professional careers, particularly at the National Laboratories (Department of Energy/NNSA and Department of Defense).

Required Qualifications:
A recent Ph.D. degree in Physics, or related field
Strong academic and hands-on, experimental research background with excellent problem-solving skills.
Graduate or post-graduate experience at a U.S. Academic Institution or National Laboratory.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment, as needed.
Personal attributes should include critical thinking; excellent communication skills, both oral and written; sound judgment; clear sense of purpose; and attention to detail.
Additional Information:

COVID-19 Vaccine Information:

In accordance with Washington State Governor's Proclamation 21.14.3, as a condition of employment, you must be fully vaccinated or have an approved medical/religious accommodation by time of hire. People are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving their last shot in a vaccine series. Full vaccination status or an approved accommodation will be verified prior to your first day of work. Should you not be fully vaccinated or have an approved medical/religious accommodation you will not be able to start employment with WSU. Information regarding vaccine verification and/or requesting a medical/religious accommodation is available at https://hrs.wsu.edu/covid-19/vax-verification/. Please contact HRS at [email protected] or 509-335-4521 if you have questions.

Area/College: College of Arts and Sciences
Department Name: Institute for Shock Physics
City, State, Zip: Pullman, WA 99164
Department Link: shock.wsu.edu
Monthly Salary: Salary range $5,000 - $5,416 and is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
FTE: 100%
Tenure Track: No
Screening Begin Date: This position will begin screening applicants July 8, 2022 and will remain open until a successful candidate has been identified.
Background Check: This position has been designated by the department to require a background check.

Application Instructions:

Applicants must attach the following documents to their online application: 1) curriculum vitae and 2) cover letter. Application materials should clearly communicate how the applicant meets all required qualifications and additional requirements. Applicants are required to include contact information for professional references within the application.

Required Documents:
Cover letter written to the attention of Dr. James Hawreliak
Detailed Curriculum Vita
Time Type:
Full time

Position Term:
12 Month

WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EDUCATOR AND EMPLOYER. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veteran, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply.

WSU employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

WSU is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resource Services: 509-335-4521 (v), Washington State TDD Relay Service: Voice Callers: 1-800-833-6384; TDD Callers: 1-800-833-6388, 509-335-1259(f), or [email protected]

To apply, visit https://wsu.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/WSU_Jobs/job/Pullman-WA/Postdoctoral-Research-Associate---Condensed-Matter-Physics_R-6237

Washington State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Educator and Employer.