What are the responsibilities and job description for the NNSS Bruno Rossi Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship in Science & Technology (Senior Engineer) position at Nevada National Security Sites?
Job Description
Mission Support and Test Services, LLC (MSTS) manages and operates the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). Our MISSION is to help ensure the security of the United States and its allies by providing high-hazard experimentation and incident response capabilities through operations, engineering, education, field, and integration services and by acting as environmental stewards to the Site’s Cold War legacy. Our VISION is to be the user site of choice for large-scale, high-hazard, national security experimentation, with premier facilities and capabilities below ground, on the ground, and in the air. (See NNSS.gov for our unique capabilities.) Our 2,750 professional, craft, and support employees are called upon to innovate, collaborate, and deliver on some of the more difficult nuclear security challenges facing the world today. In this environment, the best ideas need to be voiced and every opinion matters. As such, MSTS places great value on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and is committed to a diverse and equitable workforce, with an inclusive culture that values and celebrates the diversity of our people, talents, ideas, and perspectives.
THIS IS A LIMITED-TERM REGULAR FULL-TIME POSITION. SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE CAN BE EMPLOYED UP TO TWO YEARS, WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR, BASED ON THE ORGANINZATIONS' NEEDS. CANDIDATE MAY BE CONSIDERED FOR A POST-DOC POSITION WITHIN 3 YEARS OF RECEIVING THEIR PhD, OR THE CANDIDATE WILL HAVE COMPLETED ALL PhD REQUIREMENTS BY HIRE DATE.
Overview
The Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) is proud to announce the Bruno Rossi Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship in Science and Technology, established in honor of Dr. Bruno Rossi, an iconic physicist known for his pioneering work in nuclear science and cosmic ray research. This prestigious fellowship aims to inspire the next generation of researchers to drive advancements in national security.
Fellowship Details
The Bruno Rossi Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship is a three-year program for recent PhD graduates (within the past five years) in physical science, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics. The fellowship offers a highly competitive salary plus $500K in startup funds for equipment, research consumables, conference travel, and the opportunity to hire a postdoc, grad student, or research associate. Fellows will work with a mentor at the NNSS, gaining access to state-of-the-art facilities and technology.
In its inaugural year, the fellowship focuses on the Accelerator Beam Science and Target Interactions (ABSTI) Science and Technology Thrust Area (STTA).
The ABSTI STTA supports critical operational needs, advanced concepts, and innovative solutions for our large linear induction accelerator Scorpius and charged particle beam science in general. Specific initiatives include methods and techniques of various forms of pulsed power and their implementation on linear induction electron accelerators and potentially other advanced machines; advanced accelerator controls and data acquisition including analysis for enhanced machine performance; beam-target interaction models with diagnostics systems and methods to measure key accelerator characteristics, machine tuning, and machine reliability and maintenance needs; cross-cutting solutions for beam science and x-ray generation for radiographic systems supporting national security requirements; and accelerator science and technology maturation and development using integrated test stands and other complementary platforms and/or national user facilities. For more information on the ABSTI STTA and this year’s Rossi Fellowship, please visit https://nnss.gov/mission/sdrd/bruno-rossi-distinguished-postdoctoral-fellowship-in-science-and-technology/
Future Calls Will Rotate Among The Following Seven STTAs
Application Requirements
Applicants Must Submit The Following
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Department of Energy Q Clearance (position will be cleared to this level). Reviews and tests for the absence of any illegal drug as defined in 10 CFR Part 707.4 , “Workplace Substance Abuse Programs at DOE Sites,” will be conducted. Applicant selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation, required to participate in subsequent reinvestigations, and must meet the eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. Successful completion of a counterintelligence evaluation, which may include a counterintelligence-scope polygraph examination, may also be required. Reference 10 CFR Part 709 , “Counterintelligence Evaluation Program.”
MSTS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. MSTS is a background screening, drug-free workplace.
Annual salary range for this position is: $99,340.80 to $149,011.20
Starting salary is determined based on the position market value, the individual candidate education and experience and internal equity.
About Dr. Bruno Rossi
Dr. Bruno Rossi was a physicist of exceptional vision, contributing significantly to nuclear science and our understanding of the universe. His journey evolved from cosmic-ray physics to cosmic-ray astronomy, bridging particle physics, astronomy, and cosmology. His work led to groundbreaking discoveries such as the existence of the solar wind and the identification of extra-solar sources of X-rays, marking the inception of cosmic x-ray astronomy.
Dr. Rossi's legacy is defined by his relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation, embodying the spirit of exploration and the application of science for the betterment of society.
Rossi’s Role in the Manhattan Project
From late spring 1943, Dr. Rossi played a pivotal role in the Manhattan Project at Los Alamos, where top scientific minds gathered to develop nuclear weapons. Dr. Rossi, along with his colleague, Hans Staub, was responsible for developing detectors crucial for nuclear experiments. Their innovative work on fast ionization chambers was instrumental in verifying the implosion method for detonating the plutonium bomb.
One of Dr. Rossi's notable contributions was the development of the "Rossi curve," a method to measure the exponential growth of the chain reaction during the Trinity Test, the first-ever nuclear explosion on July 16, 1945. Dr. Rossi's ingenious use of state-of-the-art oscilloscopes allowed for incredibly rapid measurements, which were essential for computing the multiplication rate of nuclear reactions. His groundbreaking methods became a standard for subsequent nuclear tests.
Dr. Rossi's work during the Manhattan Project exemplified his unique ability to achieve significant results through innovative approaches, often using the simplest means. Inspired by Enrico Fermi, Dr. Rossi devised unconventional ways to utilize existing technology to achieve unprecedented precision in nuclear measurements. His contributions significantly advanced the understanding and development of nuclear weapons, laying the foundation for future research and testing.
Fellowship Impact
As a Rossi Fellow, you will contribute to cutting-edge research projects, impacting future capabilities at the Scorpius linear induction accelerator at NNSS and supporting NNSA subcritical experiments for Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories. This fellowship not only honors Dr. Rossi's scientific achievements but also embodies his belief in the power of scientific knowledge to serve humanity.
Join us in continuing Dr. Rossi's legacy by applying your innovation and research to the NNSS mission. Embrace the opportunity to stand on the shoulders of giants, shape the future of national security, and enhance our ability to address future global threats.
Mission Support and Test Services, LLC (MSTS) manages and operates the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). Our MISSION is to help ensure the security of the United States and its allies by providing high-hazard experimentation and incident response capabilities through operations, engineering, education, field, and integration services and by acting as environmental stewards to the Site’s Cold War legacy. Our VISION is to be the user site of choice for large-scale, high-hazard, national security experimentation, with premier facilities and capabilities below ground, on the ground, and in the air. (See NNSS.gov for our unique capabilities.) Our 2,750 professional, craft, and support employees are called upon to innovate, collaborate, and deliver on some of the more difficult nuclear security challenges facing the world today. In this environment, the best ideas need to be voiced and every opinion matters. As such, MSTS places great value on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and is committed to a diverse and equitable workforce, with an inclusive culture that values and celebrates the diversity of our people, talents, ideas, and perspectives.
- MSTS offers our full-time employees highly competitive salaries and benefits packages including medical, dental, and vision; both a pension and a 401k; paid time off and 96 hours of paid holidays; relocation (if located more than 75 miles from work location); tuition assistance and reimbursement; and more.
- MSTS is a limited liability company consisting of Honeywell International Inc. (Honeywell), Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. (Jacobs), and HII Nuclear Inc.
THIS IS A LIMITED-TERM REGULAR FULL-TIME POSITION. SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE CAN BE EMPLOYED UP TO TWO YEARS, WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR, BASED ON THE ORGANINZATIONS' NEEDS. CANDIDATE MAY BE CONSIDERED FOR A POST-DOC POSITION WITHIN 3 YEARS OF RECEIVING THEIR PhD, OR THE CANDIDATE WILL HAVE COMPLETED ALL PhD REQUIREMENTS BY HIRE DATE.
Overview
The Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) is proud to announce the Bruno Rossi Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship in Science and Technology, established in honor of Dr. Bruno Rossi, an iconic physicist known for his pioneering work in nuclear science and cosmic ray research. This prestigious fellowship aims to inspire the next generation of researchers to drive advancements in national security.
Fellowship Details
The Bruno Rossi Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship is a three-year program for recent PhD graduates (within the past five years) in physical science, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics. The fellowship offers a highly competitive salary plus $500K in startup funds for equipment, research consumables, conference travel, and the opportunity to hire a postdoc, grad student, or research associate. Fellows will work with a mentor at the NNSS, gaining access to state-of-the-art facilities and technology.
In its inaugural year, the fellowship focuses on the Accelerator Beam Science and Target Interactions (ABSTI) Science and Technology Thrust Area (STTA).
The ABSTI STTA supports critical operational needs, advanced concepts, and innovative solutions for our large linear induction accelerator Scorpius and charged particle beam science in general. Specific initiatives include methods and techniques of various forms of pulsed power and their implementation on linear induction electron accelerators and potentially other advanced machines; advanced accelerator controls and data acquisition including analysis for enhanced machine performance; beam-target interaction models with diagnostics systems and methods to measure key accelerator characteristics, machine tuning, and machine reliability and maintenance needs; cross-cutting solutions for beam science and x-ray generation for radiographic systems supporting national security requirements; and accelerator science and technology maturation and development using integrated test stands and other complementary platforms and/or national user facilities. For more information on the ABSTI STTA and this year’s Rossi Fellowship, please visit https://nnss.gov/mission/sdrd/bruno-rossi-distinguished-postdoctoral-fellowship-in-science-and-technology/
Future Calls Will Rotate Among The Following Seven STTAs
- Accelerator Beam Science and Target Interactions (FY25 call)
- Communications and Computing
- Dynamic Experiment Diagnostics
- Enabling Technologies for Autonomous Systems and Sensing
- Neutron Technologies and Measurements
- Radiographic Systems Imaging and Analysis
- User-Centered Remote Testing and Operations
Application Requirements
Applicants Must Submit The Following
- Curriculum Vitae
- Detailed research statement
- List of publications
- Three to five letters of reference
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
- Education: PhD degree within the past three years in a calculus-based (STEM) field.
- Analytical Skills: Advanced skills necessary to solve complex problems and make decisions independently.
- Government Experience: Experience with U.S. government stakeholders (e.g., National Nuclear Security Administration [NNSA], Department of Energy [DOE]) desired.
- Safety Culture: Proven ability to lead and promote a robust safety culture.
- Collaboration: Demonstrated experience in building successful collaborations across multiple organizations.
- Communication: Advanced verbal and written skills to present technical information to stakeholders.
- Independent Work: Ability to work independently and in a team with minimal direction.
- Pre-Placement Requirements: Physical examination, including a drug screen, and a valid driver’s license.
- The primary work location will be at the Nevada National Security Site (located 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Nevada.)
- Work schedule will be 4/10s Monday through Thursday (subject to change).
- Pre-placement physical examination, which includes a drug screen, is required. MSTS maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
Department of Energy Q Clearance (position will be cleared to this level). Reviews and tests for the absence of any illegal drug as defined in 10 CFR Part 707.4 , “Workplace Substance Abuse Programs at DOE Sites,” will be conducted. Applicant selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation, required to participate in subsequent reinvestigations, and must meet the eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. Successful completion of a counterintelligence evaluation, which may include a counterintelligence-scope polygraph examination, may also be required. Reference 10 CFR Part 709 , “Counterintelligence Evaluation Program.”
MSTS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. MSTS is a background screening, drug-free workplace.
Annual salary range for this position is: $99,340.80 to $149,011.20
Starting salary is determined based on the position market value, the individual candidate education and experience and internal equity.
About Dr. Bruno Rossi
Dr. Bruno Rossi was a physicist of exceptional vision, contributing significantly to nuclear science and our understanding of the universe. His journey evolved from cosmic-ray physics to cosmic-ray astronomy, bridging particle physics, astronomy, and cosmology. His work led to groundbreaking discoveries such as the existence of the solar wind and the identification of extra-solar sources of X-rays, marking the inception of cosmic x-ray astronomy.
Dr. Rossi's legacy is defined by his relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation, embodying the spirit of exploration and the application of science for the betterment of society.
Rossi’s Role in the Manhattan Project
From late spring 1943, Dr. Rossi played a pivotal role in the Manhattan Project at Los Alamos, where top scientific minds gathered to develop nuclear weapons. Dr. Rossi, along with his colleague, Hans Staub, was responsible for developing detectors crucial for nuclear experiments. Their innovative work on fast ionization chambers was instrumental in verifying the implosion method for detonating the plutonium bomb.
One of Dr. Rossi's notable contributions was the development of the "Rossi curve," a method to measure the exponential growth of the chain reaction during the Trinity Test, the first-ever nuclear explosion on July 16, 1945. Dr. Rossi's ingenious use of state-of-the-art oscilloscopes allowed for incredibly rapid measurements, which were essential for computing the multiplication rate of nuclear reactions. His groundbreaking methods became a standard for subsequent nuclear tests.
Dr. Rossi's work during the Manhattan Project exemplified his unique ability to achieve significant results through innovative approaches, often using the simplest means. Inspired by Enrico Fermi, Dr. Rossi devised unconventional ways to utilize existing technology to achieve unprecedented precision in nuclear measurements. His contributions significantly advanced the understanding and development of nuclear weapons, laying the foundation for future research and testing.
Fellowship Impact
As a Rossi Fellow, you will contribute to cutting-edge research projects, impacting future capabilities at the Scorpius linear induction accelerator at NNSS and supporting NNSA subcritical experiments for Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories. This fellowship not only honors Dr. Rossi's scientific achievements but also embodies his belief in the power of scientific knowledge to serve humanity.
Join us in continuing Dr. Rossi's legacy by applying your innovation and research to the NNSS mission. Embrace the opportunity to stand on the shoulders of giants, shape the future of national security, and enhance our ability to address future global threats.
Salary : $99,341 - $500,000
