Missions

The postdoc will be part of the SPRINT team. The project will take place as part of a project funded by the ANR and aimed at characterizing and quantifying a dual source (neutrons and X-rays) for probing materials. The project is taking place as part of an industrial collaboration. The high-intensity laser-plasma interaction makes it possible to generate powerful and simultaneous neutron and X-ray radiation. The former allow you to probe the elements present in an object, while the latter offer the possibility of measuring the overall density. Together, they make it possible to obtain information about object content in a non-intrusive and non-destructive way.
The post-doctoral fellow will work within the framework of the project with the aim of both (1) performing Monte Carlo simulations (with established codes such as GEANT4, MCNP, FLUKA, or others) in order to project possible sounding capabilities with current laser-produced sources, and (2) implementing experiments to test the predictions of these calculations and optimize the sources.

The missions follow these lines of action :
1) scientific contribution: a breakthrough in the sounding capabilities of materials, to overcome current technological limitations;
2) the object: the first non-destructive testing (NDT) with a dual source and in a compact way;
3) the research challenge: a more efficient process for simultaneously producing X-rays and neutrons by intense laser;
4) Methodology: Developing a comprehensive suite of laser-driven neutron and X-ray source simulations; as well as the construction of an experimental platform to validate and compare the theoretical results to measurements.
5) Knowledge Generation: A compact device that can practically be used for nuclear waste and cargo.

Activities

The recruited person will have several activities:
-numerical simulations based on established Monte Carlo codes
-Participation in the implementation of experiments carried out on the Apollon facility of LULI (https://apollonlaserfacility.cnrs.fr), or on other existing intense lasers (e.g. ELI, https://www.eli-laser.eu)
-Analysis of data from experiments in order to optimize processes
-coordination with the ANR project partners (academic and industrial) in order to meet the objectives of the project

Skills

The candidate must have a background in the field of nuclear physics, or plasma physics. For this position, several skills, know-how and interpersonal skills are expected.

Skills :
- knowledge of plasma physics, or nuclear physics
- use of Monte Carlo simulation codes (GEANT4, MCNP, FLUKA, or other) to simulate the sounding of materials by neutrons and X-rays
- experimental skills for the implementation and execution of experiments with power lasers (optical, mechanical, diagnostics)
- knowledge of the operation of neutron and X-ray diagnostics

Know-how :
-English (oral and written)
-oral presentation
-writing of articles and reports
- compliance with rules and procedures
- accountability

Soft skills :
- ability to work in a team
-rigour
-autonomy
-adaptability
- Ability to learn on your own and develop skills

The candidate must be able to work in a team on a multidisciplinary project.

Applications should include a detailed CV; at least two references (people who may be contacted); a one-page cover letter; grades from Master 1 or 2 or engineering school.

Work Context

The mission will be carried out at the LULI laboratory. The LULI (Laboratory for the Use of Intense Lasers), is a joint research unit (CNRS, École Polytechnique, CEA, Sorbonne University, UMR 7605), located on the campus of the École Polytechnique (Palaiseau), at the Orme des Site des Merisiers (Saclay) and on the Jussieu campus of Sorbonne University in Paris. The laboratory has 100 people (65 engineers and technicians and 35 researchers). LULI is an academic research center and a training center in hot plasma physics and laser optics. The LULI laboratory provides the scientific community with laser chains and competitive experimental means adapted to research on the physics of hot and dense plasmas created by lasers.

The position is part of the "LIOR" project funded by the ANR, which started in January 2025 for a period of 5 years, with as partners: CELIA (U. Bordeaux, specialized in the simulation of the processes underlying the project), ASNR (neutron specialist), and TRACTEBEL (industrial partner).

The position is in a sector subject to the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST) and therefore, in accordance with regulations, requires your arrival to be authorised by the competent authority.

Constraints and risks

The laboratory is made up of several sites, so travel may be required. International missions are possible.