Organizational Overview

The Data Science and Systems Integration (DSSI) team at the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) develop scientific software for experimental orchestration including controls systems, automation, networks, data management and analysis. The team is developing robotic controls using the Robotic Operating System (ROS) that interface with the Bluesky software suite for experiment planning and data acquisition.

Position Description

The selected candidate will lead the development of the critical technologies required to realize self-driving beamlines with human-AI-facility integration to accelerate scientific discovery at NSLS-II. The candidate will work with the DSSI team under the supervision of Phillip Maffettone. This position is available as a fully on-site or partial telework role.

This position is an excellent opportunity to gain expertise in open-source software engineering, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Spearhead the effort to develop a prototype self-driving beamline that integrates flexible automation, AI models, and scientific insight from experts.
• Develop open-source software that will be integrated into the Bluesky experimental planning and data acquisition framework at NSLS-II.
• Collaborate with scientists and software engineers to implement the best strategies and approaches for sample manipulation, data acquisition, visualization, and analysis.
• Publish and present the results of these studies to the community.

Position Requirements

• PhD in computer science, engineering, physical sciences, materials science, or a related discipline.
• Proficiency in Python or C++ programming.
• Demonstrated record of scientific excellence through publications and talks.
• Excellent communications and interpersonal skills to be able to interact effectively with a diverse group of scientists, engineers, and technical staff.
• Self-motivated and able to work in a team environment.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (experience in one or more of the following):

• Robotics and automation technologies, preferably with the Robotic Operating System (ROS)
• Dacquisition and analysis at a synchrotron light source, neutron source or other major scientific user facility.
• Developing and deploying AI models.
• Computer vision or positioning systems.
• User interface development.
• Total scattering and PDF methods.
• Demonstrated record of collaborative software development, especially in distributed teams.
• Familiarity with version control (Github, etc.) and contributions to open-source projects.

OTHER INFORMATION: 
BNL policy requires that after obtaining their PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.

 At Brookhaven National Laboratory we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive. Our benefits program includes, but is not limited to:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Care Plans
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Time-off and Leave Programs (vacation, holidays, sick leave, paid parental leave)
• 401(k) Plan
• Flexible Work Arrangements
• Tuition Assistance, Training and Professional Development Programs
• Employee Fitness/Wellness & Recreation:  Gym/Basketball Courts, Weight Room, Fitness Classes, Indoor Pool, Tennis Courts, Sports Clubs/Activities (Basketball, Ping Pong, Softball, Tennis).

Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Energy and Photon Sciences Directorate are committed to your success. We offer a supportive work environment and the resources necessary for you to succeed.