Rsch Pro 6-High Energy Phys (Liu)

Job Description:
Applications are invited for a research associate position in experimental dark matter searches at the University of Minnesota to work on the SuperCDMS experiment. SuperCDMS is a next-generation direct detection dark matter experiment, currently under construction, to search for low mass WIMPs through their interactions in cryogenic germanium and silicon detectors. The experiment expects to start commissioning in 2025. The SuperCDMS group at UMN is involved in multiple aspects of the experiment, such as data analysis, software development, data acquisition system, and detector operation. Additionally, the UMN group has a test facility setup to develop the next generation detector concepts and calibration schemes.

The successful applicant is expected to take a leading role in the development of the event reconstruction algorithms for the new generation detectors, take part in detector performance and characterization efforts at SNOLAB, and to contribute to analysis of the dark matter search data. She or he will also interact closely with graduate students and other group members. The position is primarily based in Minneapolis, but the candidate may be expected to travel to Sudbury and to other SuperCDMS test facilities in the US.

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in high energy physics or a closely related field, and to have demonstrated experience building, analyzing data from, and operating particle, nuclear, or astroparticle physics experiments. Preference will be given to those who have experience leading analysis efforts in dark matter direct search experiments, and/or significant experience operating cryogenic detectors.

Job Requirements:
- 30% Develop novel event reconstruction algorithms for next generation large cryogenic detectors. Leverage Machine Learning techniques to extract meaning physics quantities from complex detector data. Pushing the mass reach for Dark Matter searches by improving detector resolution.

- 30% Lead topical analysis using the first science run data from SuperCDMS SNOLAB. Conduct data cleaning and cut efficiency studies. Develop blinding schemes for different dark matter candidates.

- 15% Contribute to the experiment commissioning, which may involve operating the cryogenic detectors, conducting detector performance tuning and evaluation, and studying the calibration schemes.

- 10% Report preparations: Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports that describe the methods and the results obtained.

- 5% Communicating Research Results
Maintaining familiarity with cutting-edge results and methods
Attending collaboration meetings, seminars and conferences
Communicating research to the broader community
Writing papers and submitting them for publication in scientific journals
Presenting results at conferences (both domestic and international)
Other duties of a similar scope as assigned

-10% Supervise local graduate students and undergrads for research

Required Qualifications
Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Physics in experimental high energy physics or related fields with extensive experience in the data analysis and the software systems used in high energy physics and publication records

Familiarity with Unix/Linux operating systems, C++ and Python programming languages.

Experience in building, analyzing data from, and operating particle, nuclear, or astroparticle physics experiments.

Experience in applying Machine Learning techniques to high energy physics problems.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience leading analysis efforts in dark matter direct detection searches.

Experience with cryogenic detector testing and operation.

School of Physics and Astronomy: https://cse.umn.edu/physics

Pay Range: $65,000 to $68,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Please provide the following application documents:

-- Cover letter why you are interested and qualified for the position

-- Curriculum Vitae including recent publications

-- Statement of research experience and interest

-- Reference list with contact information

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).