INFM Unit at the University of Parma is currently opening a postdoctoral position in the field of Muon Spin Spectroscopy with particular reference to the development of innovative detectors. This activity belongs to the JRA MUON-S and it is carried on within the WorkPackage "Detectors" coordinated by the Partner at PSI-Villigen (CH) in collaboration with INFM-Parma.
The fellowship offers an excellent opportunity for a postdoctoral scientist to develop his/her expertise, broaden his/her experience and interact with leading scientists within the JRA as well as the whole scientific community of the NMI3.

Muons provide a unique probe of atomic level structure and dynamics and the experimental technique is known as Muon Spin Rotation, Relaxation and Resonance (µSR). A wide variety of properties can be investigated across a broad range of systems, including magnetic materials, superconductors, semiconductors and molecular/polymeric systems. Muons provide a complementary probe of condensed matter to other techniques such as neutron scattering and magnetic resonance, and are used by many research groups across Europe.

The development of new detectors for µSR spectrometers will involve, in particular, the development of position-sensitive detectors and electronics readout based on new solid state and integrated technologies; fast timing detector system for high magnetic field and RF spectrometers; the exploration of analogue detection techniques.

We are searching for a suitable candidate with experience in Monte Carlo simulations of detectors systems and particle tracking; programming skills (C,C++); hands-on experience in working with modern detector systems, familiarity with position-sensitive devices (Si) as well as fast-timing detector systems (PMTs, APDs), and familiarity with complex front-end electronics systems. Experience in muSR techniques is an advantage but not required.

A PhD in Physics and a good level of English is required. The successful candidate will be offered a 12-month contract funded by the EU Sixth Framework Programme (FP6).

Further information on the JRA MUON-S is available from the EU-Neutron portal at http://www.neutron-eu.net/jra8/index.php or can be obtained by contacting Prof. Cesare Bucci (tel: xx39-0521-905246 or e-mail: bucci@fis.unipr.it).

Applications including curriculum vitae, academic record, short summary of former research activities and the names of two academic referees should be send by August 31st 2004 to:

Prof. Cesare Bucci
Physics Department, INFM Unit
University of Parma
Parco Area delle Scienze 7/A
43100 PARMA (Italy)

Tel: xx39-0521-905246
FAX: 0039-0521-905223
e-mail: bucci@fis.unipr.it