Fiber Amplifier Laser Component Optimization (FALCO) Lab Postdoctoral Fellow

The Space and Missile Defense Technical Center (SMDTC) Directed Energy Research Division is seeking qualified candidates for for experimental and theoretical work examining fiber amplifier laser material properties, nonlinear effects, and research into novel fiber laser concepts. The candidates will be expected to perform basic and applied research with a range of components included seed lasers, pump lasers, and doped fiber amplifiers in the context of kilowatt-class directed energy lasers. Experimental candidates will be expected to assemble, diagnose, splice, and execute experiments with monolithic fiber amplifier lasers. Theoretical candidates will be expected to perform modeling and simulation of gain dynamics, material properties, and nonlinear effects in fibers. All candidates will be expected to analyze data for publication and presentation to internal Command and Army audiences as well as across DOD and public conferences. MINIMUM requirements: Doctoral degree in Physics, Photonics, Optics, Engineering, Material Science, Computer Science or related STEM discipline DoD Secret clearance or the ability to obtain a clearance Knowledge of laboratory and/or computational codes such as LabView, Python, Matlab, etc. Demonstrated experience presenting scientific work via peer-reviewed publications and presentations DESIRED qualifications: Direct Experience with designing, splicing, building, or aligning fiber amplifier lasers (preferably 1um, large mode area double-clad fiber, kilowatt-class average power levels) diagnostics and experimental setups such as optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, Fabry-Perot interferometers, beam profilers, and IR cameras. Familiarity with power supplies, thermal management systems, optics, and RF electronics required to operate fiber amplifier lasers in the kilowatt-class regime Advanced implementation of codes such as LabView, Matlab, or Python for the execution and processing of experimental data to characterize lasers and nonlinear effects Conceptual as well as working understanding (or simulation) of laser energetics, rate equations, gain calculations, and nonlinear effects such as Stimulated Brillouin Scattering, Transverse Mode Instability, and Stimulated Raman Scattering Demonstrated ability to work independently and with a diverse team of researchers including government, academics, and student researchers across various disciplines In addition to a minimum stipend of $107,534, discretionary stipends to support relocation, housing, and research-related travel may be offered. AEOP Reference Code: SMDTC002 To apply for this position: 1) Click Apply Now 2) Create a New Account 3) Start “2025 Fellowship Application” 4) Under “4. Fellowship Opportunities,” search for the opportunity using the AEOP reference code 5) Select to apply