Missions

AGATA is a European project aimed at building a 4π gamma-ray tracking detector. The array, currently installed at the Legnaro National Laboratory (Italy), is regularly used for experiments and continuously upgraded. The postdoctoral researcher will be actively involved in the AGATA collaboration, contributing to both experimental campaigns and detector developments.
The main development objective is to enhance the performance of AGATA's Pulse Shape Analysis (PSA) algorithm, which extracts 3D interaction points from 37 digital signals. Regarding experimental campaigns, the candidate will be particularly engaged in a long-duration experiment (approximately one month) planned for mid-2026.

Activities

• Improve AGATA's PSA algorithm, which currently relies on simulated response functions of segmented germanium crystals, by implementing Machine Learning approaches. Preliminary studies using dedicated scanned datasets have shown strong potential. The researcher will work on generalizing this method to all AGATA crystals and enhancing reconstruction efficiency, particularly for cases with two interactions in a single segment.
• Participate in a long-duration experiment where AGATA is coupled with the PRISMA spectrometer to study the nuclear structure of neutron-rich nuclei produced via fission induced by a uranium beam on a beryllium target.
• Contribute to the preparation, execution, and analysis of this experiment. A specific involvement in data acquisition will be required to ensure high dataset quality and maximize scientific output.

Skills

The ideal candidate should have:
• Knowledge in Machine Learning: Prior experience or familiarity with Machine Learning techniques would be a strong asset.
• Strong programming skills: Proficiency in Python and C++ is essential for algorithm development and data analysis.
• Experimental involvement: A strong interest in participating in experimental campaigns, including detector operation and data acquisition, is expected.
• Data analysis proficiency: Experience in handling and analyzing large datasets, especially in the field of nuclear spectroscopy, would be highly valued.
• Teamwork and communication: Ability to work effectively within an international collaboration and present results at meetings and conferences.

Work Context

The research will be conducted at IP2I Lyon, which provides the necessary computing resources and expertise for the project. The successful candidate will join the MATNUC team, which has strong expertise in high-resolution gamma-ray spectroscopy and machine learning applied to signal processing.
The candidate will be required to travel and spend extended periods (several weeks to one or two months) at Legnaro/Italy for the long-duration fission experiment, but also at Strasbourg where the scanned datasets for PSA developments are produced.
The researcher will be expected to present results at international conferences and workshops.

Constraints and risks

The recruited researcher must obtain authorization to work in supervised and controlled areas, complying with applicable regulations and procedures for nuclear safety and security.