Research Scientist- Scientific Software, Machine Controls & AI/ML (Assistant, Associate, or full Research Scientist)
Software Engineering, Data Science
Tempe, AZ, USA
Arizona State University: Knowledge Enterprise: Biodesign Institute: Biodesign Beus Compact X-ray Free Electron Laser Lab
Location
Open Date
Aug 26, 2026
Description
The Biodesign Beus CXFEL Laboratory at Arizona State University is seeking a Research Scientist- Scientific Software, Machine Controls & AI/ML (Assistant, Associate, or full Research Scientist) to develop, maintain, and innovate software solutions, control systems, and machine learning models for accelerator simulation and machine operation. The candidate chosen for this role should have a demonstrated track record in scientific programming (e.g., Python, C++, Julia) applied to physics simulation or control systems. This is a benefits-eligible, full-time, 12-month position, with no tenure implications. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the opportunity for renewal contingent on funding availability and satisfactory performance. The anticipated start date is October 2026.
Essential Duties:
- Architect and implement scientific software for beam dynamics, RF simulations, and control workflows.
- Develop and deploy artificial intelligence (AI) and neural network models for real-time machine optimization, automated tuning, and predictive diagnostics.
- Integrate software tools with experimental hardware and accelerator control platforms.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Must have earned a Ph.D in Computer Science, Computational Physics, Physics, or a related field and have a minimum of 3 years of research experience at the time of the appointment.
- Demonstrated track record in scientific programming (e.g., Python, C++, Julia) applied to physics simulation or control systems.
- Assistant Research Scientist - PhD and 3 years of research experience (ideally postdoctoral exp.)
- Associate Research Scientist - PhD and 5 years of research experience (ideally postdoctoral exp.)
- Research Scientist - PhD and 7 years of research experience (ideally postdoctoral exp.)
Desired Qualifications:
- Practical experience (dependent on ranking) with deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow), control systems (e.g., EPICS), or computational beam/RF dynamics.
Application Instructions
Only electronic submissions will be reviewed. Incomplete applications will not be considered. To apply for this position, submit the following required application materials:
- A detailed cover letter that includes a description of applicant’s research interests and relevant experience and vision related to the position.
- Current curriculum vitae.
- Contact information for three professional references (include name, title, affiliation, email address, phone number).
The initial application deadline is Friday September 25, 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis for a reserve pool. Applications in the reserve pool may then be reviewed in the order in which they were received until the position is filled.