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Synchrotron Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY ยท On-site

$62.23 - $88.75/hr

The Cornell EASL group's mission is to advance the study of cultural heritage objects using synchrotron x-ray techniques through building partnerships between CHESS scientists, Cornell faculty, and ...

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Synchrotron information

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$116.5K

How much do synchrotron jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for synchrotron in the United States is $85,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a synchrotron?

A synchrotron is a type of particle accelerator that uses powerful magnets and electric fields to accelerate charged particles, such as electrons, to nearly the speed of light. As these particles are accelerated in a circular path, they emit extremely bright light known as synchrotron radiation. This light is then used in a variety of scientific research fields, including physics, materials science, biology, and chemistry, to study the structure and properties of different materials at the molecular and atomic level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a synchrotron scientist?

To thrive as a Synchrotron Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, materials science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant PhD and research experience. Expertise in synchrotron radiation techniques, data analysis software, and familiarity with advanced instrumentation is essential. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help in collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams and conveying complex findings. These abilities are vital for advancing scientific research, optimizing facility operations, and ensuring high-impact results.

What are some typical challenges faced by scientists working at a synchrotron facility, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Scientists at synchrotron facilities often work in highly collaborative, fast-paced environments where experiments are scheduled tightly and downtime is minimal. New hires may face challenges such as adapting to complex instrumentation, managing time efficiently during beamtime, and working with multidisciplinary teams. It's important to develop strong communication and organizational skills, as well as a willingness to learn new experimental techniques quickly. Being proactive in seeking mentorship and training opportunities can help smooth the transition and build confidence in operating specialized equipment.

What is the difference between Synchrotron vs Particle Accelerator Technician?

AspectSynchrotronParticle Accelerator Technician
CredentialsPhysics or engineering degree, certifications in accelerator technologyTechnical diploma or degree, certifications in accelerator systems
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, laboratories, large-scale scientific installationsResearch centers, laboratories, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageScientific research, medical applications, materials scienceMaintenance, operation, and troubleshooting of accelerators

Both roles involve working with particle accelerators, but Synchrotron specialists focus on large-scale synchrotron light sources used in research, while Particle Accelerator Technicians handle the day-to-day operation and maintenance of various accelerator types. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Synchrotron jobs
Infographic showing various Synchrotron job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Research Associate-Experimental

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Menlo Park, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory has an opening for a postdoctoral Research Associate (RA) with research interests in applying in situ and operando synchrotron X-ray characterization to develop cathodes for Li-metal and Na-ion batteries using earth abundant materials.
This position will involve working in developing high capacity, long lasting earth abundant cathodes for Li-metal and Na-ion batteries as well as earth abundant high capacity anodes for Na-ion storage. The project will focus on using X-rays to characterize the electrochemical cycling and degradation of low-Ni, high-Fe content layered oxide Na-ion battery cathodes, Na-ion anodes beyond hard carbon, and low/no Co high capacity cathodes for Li-metal batteries. Additionally, the work may include developing novel nondestructive techniques for directly detecting Na metal plating on hard carbon.
X-ray characterization such as transmission X-ray microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray spectroscopy will be used during battery cycling to understand degradation mechanisms such as particle fracturing, interparticle oxidation heterogeneity, irreversible chemical reactions, and irreparable crystal structure evolution. The RA will have the opportunity to publish lead-author manuscripts and to build a career in energy storage technologies, X-ray science, or a future teaching career. There will also be mentorship opportunities with undergraduate researchers during the summer.
Note : The Research Associate role is a fixed term staff position. Appointment duration is 12 months, with the possibility of extension. Assignment duration is contingent upon project needs and funding.
Applicants must provide evidence of either a recently completed PhD degree or confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Applicants should also include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae which includes a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application.
To be successful in this position you will bring:
  • PhD in physics, materials sciences, chemistry, engineering, or related field.
  • Demonstrated experience with synchrotron X-ray characterization of battery materials.
  • Demonstrated experience in electrochemistry.
  • Strong experimental, analytical and computation skills. Preferably experience analyzing large datasets using python or similar analysis tools.
  • Broad scientific interests and willingness to learn new skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse population; good interpersonal skills are essential.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.