Pulsed Power Research Associate

#138035 Pulsed Power Staff Research Associate (Filing Deadline: Wed 1/28/2026)

9500 Gilman Drive, San Diego, CA 92093, United States

The Center for Energy Research (CER) is an organized research unit at UC San Diego aimed at coordinating and promoting energy research and education. The Center provides a venue for interdisciplinary interactions among UCSD faculty, researchers, students and the public. Members of CER perform basic and applied research in the fields of fusion energy, solar energy, combustion, and related disciplines. The center also serves as a focal point for studies of socio‑economic and environmental aspects of energy production and use.

• Assist with laser plasma experiments.
• Operate lasers and associated diagnostics.
• Responsible for day‑to‑day operation of the laser plasma interaction laboratory.
• Manage all safety issues pertinent to the laboratory, including laser and radiation safety.
• Assist in data processing and analysis.
• Help students carry out assigned tasks and mentor undergraduate students.
• Occasionally visit and assist in experiments at the Jupiter Laser Facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

• Theoretical knowledge of Mechanical Engineering or Physics from a related degree and one year of relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience performing data processing and analysis.
• Strong computer skills, including experience using Origin, Photoshop, and Image 1.
• Demonstrated ability to use cameras, optics, lasers, and hexapods.
• Demonstrated capability in the exercise of good experimental procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills to maintain high‑quality communication with the PI and other lab members.
• Demonstrated ability to train and provide effective work direction to students.
• Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated experience working in an academic research environment.

• Working knowledge of UC lab safety policies and procedures.

• Position will require occasional overnight travel to the Jupiter Laser Facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
• Background check required.
• Work location is on campus full‑time.

Annual Full Pay Range: $58,151 – $69,363 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $27.85 – $33.22

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

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As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.

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