Postdoc in applied nuclear physics directed towards the development of Cherenkov light analysis techniques for nuclear safeguards purposes - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Within the Division for applied nuclear physics, Department of Physics and Astronomy, research is conducted in the field of fission diagnostics and nuclear safeguards. The activities within this research group are directed towards (i) nuclear safeguards and non-proliferation, (ii) handling of spent nuclear fuel, and (iii) future nuclear energy systems.

Within the field of nuclear safeguards, there are ongoing activities around the world to further develop instruments and systems to ensure that sensitive material is not diverted from the peaceful nuclear fuel cycle. An important part of this work involved the verification of spent nuclear fuel. One possible non-destructive assay technique used by inspectors to verify spent nuclear fuel, involves the prediction and detection of Cherenkov light emitted by the fuel assemblies.

At Uppsala University, we have studied Cherenkov light detection related to the Digital Cherenkov Viewing Device (DCVD) for nuclear safeguards purposes for many years. Within this project, which is partly financed by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM), we will continue these efforts within a two-year effort, with the purpose of investigating the development of new data analysis methods to further improve the detection ability of the DCVD. Specifically, we are interested in extended use of image analysis capabilities, and the simultaneous analysis of data from the DCVD and other instruments using multivariate analysis methods. We are also considering

The postdoc is expected to investigate and evaluate different image analysis methods using both simulated data and data from measurements. The postdoc is also expected to do research related to the use of multivariate analysis algorithms, whereby multiple different non-destructive assay signatures are analyzed simultaneously. In this project, we would specifically like to integrate the DCVD signal into the algorithm and thereby evaluate strengths and weaknesses.

There may be possibilities to do measurements at Clab, the Central Interim Storage Facility for Spent Nuclear Fuel, in Sweden using different non-destructive assay techniques and the postdoc is expected to participate in these activities.

The results from the work shall be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for a postdoctoral employment, the candidate must hold a PhD degree not older than three years at the closing day of the application. Capability of teaching in Swedish and/or English is mandatory.

Requirements:

For this specific project, we require that:

• The topic of the PhD thesis has high relevance to the project
• The candidate should have programming skills in and experience of e.g. MCNP, Geant, Serpent, MATLAB, Octave, Python, FORTRAN, C or C++.
• Excellent skills in written and spoken English.

Desirable qualifications and experience include:

• Experience of working with non-destructive assay methods used in nuclear safeguards, such as the detection of Cherenkov light.
• Experience of other nuclear and/or particle physics instruments, detectors and data acquisition systems.
• Experience of working with multivariate analysis and image analysis.
• Experience of using different simulation environments.
• Experience working in a physics-based research environment and of modelling, especially in applied nuclear physics.
• Ability to work effectively in a mixed gender, multi-cultural environment and to promote team spirit.
• Ability to work independently and take personal responsibility for the progression of the project.

Evaluation criteria:

Extra attention will be paid to scientific skills. Qualifications in nuclear physics are highly rated and in particular, experience of nuclear safeguards and the Digital Cherenkov Viewing Device. Knowledge of and skills in Monte Carlo modelling, and multivariate data analysis will be considered. Experience of detection and analysis of ionizing radiation will also be considered.

Teaching skills will be evaluated, since teaching at a level of 20% can be expected.

Periods of leave, such as parental leave, that may be taken into account should be stated in the presentation of personal experience and qualifications. The department is striving to achieve a more equal gender balance and female candidates are particularly invited to apply.

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

Employment conditions:

The postdoctoral position is a 2-year appointment, and the candidate will primarily devote the time to his/her own research. It is possible to include department duties at a level of at most 20%, typically teaching.

The position is fully financed and the salary is in accordance with local guidelines at Uppsala University.

Application:

The application, written in Swedish or English, shall include

• a personal application letter,
• curriculum vitae,
• a copy of your PhD degree and your grades,
• a copy of, or link to, your thesis work
• at least two references from academia
• personal circumstances that may affect our judgement of your qualifications
• list of publication (if your work has been published), and
• any other documentation that you want us to consider.

Salary: Individually negotiated salary.

Starting date: 20181201

For further information about the position please contact
Docent Sophie Grape, tel +46 18 471 5842, e-mail: Sophie.grape@physics.uu.se.

Please submit your application by 11 November 2018, UFV-PA 2018/3671.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.