Research Assistant in Computer Science

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Location: Oak Ridge, TN, US, 37830
Company: Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
Requisition ID: 15682

Overview

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to the NEUROPIX project, an interdisciplinary effort at the intersection of:

  • High-energy physics (HEP) detectors

  • Neuromorphic computing

  • FPGA/ASIC design

  • Machine learning for edge processing

The successful candidate will work with a multi-institutional, multidisciplinary team to develop AI-enabled, low-latency signal-processing algorithms for next-generation pixel detectors used in high-energy physics experiments.

This position resides in the Relativistic Nuclear and High Energy Physics group, Physics Division, Physical Science Directorate, at ORNL.

Major Duties / Responsibilities

Neuromorphic & Machine Learning Algorithm Development:

  • Develop and train Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) for clustering, classification, and interpolation of pixel detector data

  • Explore spike-based data encoding/decoding strategies

  • Perform hyperparameter optimization using HPC resources

Detector Simulation & Data Processing:

  • Use and extend Allpix2 and TCAD-based simulation tools

  • Generate large simulation datasets for algorithm training and validation

  • Integrate simulation with neuromorphic platforms

FPGA / Hardware-Embedded AI:

  • Deploy SNNs to FPGA-based neuromorphic hardware (NeuroSpike/NeuroSpark)

  • Generate RTL using HLS workflows; evaluate resource usage, latency, and performance

  • Participate in hardware test benches for real detector systems

Experimental Detector Work:

  • Test and characterize pixel detectors (CMS HL-LHC, Timepix4, AC-LGAD, PDCs)

  • Demonstrate on-sensor data processing with hardware prototypes

  • Potential involvement in beam tests or radiation-source laboratory setups

Basic Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field

  • Experience in at least one of the following areas:

    • FPGA programming (VHDL/Verilog, HLS)

    • Pixel detectors in high-energy physics or radiation detection

    • Neuromorphic computing or Spiking Neural Networks

    • Machine learning, AI/ML algorithms, or scientific computing

  • Strong programming skills in Python and/or C++

Preferred Qualifications

  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team

  • Strong communication skills for clear documentation and presentation of research

  • Experience with:

    • Allpix2, GEANT4, detector simulation, or TCAD

    • FPGA toolchains (Xilinx Vitis/Vivado, Intel Quartus, HLS tools)

    • HPC environments or GPU-accelerated computing

    • On-detector firmware or data acquisition systems

  • Familiarity with HEP data formats and reconstruction

  • Background in semiconductor sensor physics or microelectronics

Appointment Information

  • Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the application date

  • Must complete all degree requirements before starting

  • Appointment length: up to 24 months with potential extension, contingent on performance and funding

Letters of Recommendation

  • Three letters required

  • Upload directly to the application or email postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements

  • Position requires ability to obtain and maintain HSPD-12 PIV badge

  • Real ID-compliant identification required for employment

  • Must complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check

  • Foreign nationals: candidates without 3 consecutive years U.S. residency require Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination

About ORNL

  • U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory

  • 80-year legacy addressing national scientific challenges

  • Team of 7,000+ employees

  • Environment valuing diverse perspectives and backgrounds

  • Competitive pay and benefits, including:

    • Medical, dental, and vision plans

    • 401(k) and contributory pension plans

    • Life and disability insurance

    • Generous vacation, holidays, and parental leave

    • Legal insurance, identity theft protection, and educational assistance

    • On-site amenities: fitness, banking, cafeteria

    • Relocation assistance and employee discounts

Application Instructions

  • Position open for a minimum of 5 days; closes when qualified candidate is identified

  • File types accepted: Word (.doc/.docx), Adobe PDF, RTF, HTML (.htm/.html), up to 5MB

  • Third-party resumes not accepted

Accommodation: For difficulty using the online application system or disability-related accommodations, email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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