Join the team!

Open positions:

  1. Postdoctoral/PhD Opportunity in Proton Therapy Research
  2. PhD Opportunity on the Development of Deuterated Scintillators
 

Postdoctoral/PhD Opportunity in Proton Therapy Research (FLASH) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in collaboration with OSF Healthcare and the BEAT initiative

The Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is seeking a postdoctoral research associate and a PhD student to advance our work on cutting-edge proton therapy research, specifically in the area of ultra-high dose rate FLASH radiotherapy. This research aims to explore the physical, biological, and technological challenges associated with FLASH therapy, with a focus on dose delivery optimization.

A recent PhD (for postdoctoral applicants) or a degree in physics, engineering, medical physics, or a related field (for PhD applicants) is required, along with a strong interest in experimental and computational research to advance the field of cancer treatment. Prior experience in particle therapy, radiation physics, or medical imaging is an advantage but not required.        The postdoc position is benefits-eligible, with postdoctoral appointments offered for a 12-month term starting around 02/01/2025, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 12 months contingent on satisfactory performance and funding. Salary for postdoctoral researchers will be determined based on experience and accomplishments.

PhD candidates will be offered competitive research assistantships, including tuition waivers and stipends. 

Researchers in this program are expected to actively participate in collaborative research projects, contribute to publications and presentations, engage in mentoring graduate or undergraduate students, and participate in departmental seminars and other activities. Program faculty and senior researchers will provide mentoring to support professional development. Former researchers in similar roles at UIUC have pursued successful careers in academia, industry, and government, contributing to advancements in cancer treatment and medical technologies.

Preferred qualifications:

    • MSc/PhD in Nuclear/Electrical/Biomedical Engineering or Physics or related fields
    • Experience with AD/PCB design
    • Knowledge of one or more of: Python, C++, MCNP, FLUKA
    • Constructive and creative attitude

Application details are listed at the bottom of this page.

 

PhD Opportunity on the synthesis of deuterated scintillators at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in collaboration with Idaho National Lab

The Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is seeking a PhD student to advance our work on neutron spectroscopy with deuterated scintillators for security and nuclear physics applications. This research aims to synthesize new materials for gamma-ray and neutron detection.

A degree in physics, nuclear engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field is required, along with a strong interest in experimental and computational research to advance the field of detector development. Prior experience in organic chemistry and scintillator synthesis is an advantage but not required.        PhD candidates will be offered competitive research assistantships, including tuition waivers and stipends. 

Researchers in this program are expected to actively participate in collaborative research projects, contribute to publications and presentations, engage in mentoring undergraduate students, and participate in departmental seminars and other activities. Program faculty and senior researchers will provide mentoring to support professional development. Former researchers in similar roles at UIUC have pursued successful careers in academia, industry, and government, contributing to advancements in cancer treatment and medical technologies.

Preferred qualifications:

      • Experience in organic chemistry lab techniques
      • Knowledge of one or more of: Python, C++, MCNP
      • Constructive and creative attitude
      • U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status is required for consideration.

—————————————————————————————————–

 

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We actively seek individuals of exceptional ability and promise who share in our commitment to excellence in research and scholarship and will bring diverse perspectives to our community. Applications are encouraged from candidates whose personal backgrounds, experiences, or research interests align with these values.

Postdoctoral applications should include:

  1. A cover letter detailing your research interests and experience related to the topics of  the position of interest.
  2. A curriculum vitae (CV).
  3. A relevant writing sample (optional for PhD applicants).
  4. Contact information for two references who can provide letters of recommendation.

The position is based in-person at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and is subject to the University’s background check policy. For full consideration, postDoc inquiries should be submitted by 1/20/2025. The online application for this position will be available in early January. Review of applications will begin in January and continue until the position is filled.

Standard graduate application deadlines and requirements apply to doctoral applications:  https://npre.illinois.edu/admissions/graduate .

For inquiries, please contact Prof. Di Fulvio at difulvio@illinois.edu .

 

We always seek motivated students to work on the projects listed here.