Doctoral Position in High Intensity Electron Sources for Future Accelerators

ETH Zurich and the Paul Scherrer Institute offer a 100% fixed-term doctoral position focused on high-intensity electron sources and beam dynamics for future accelerator facilities. The successful candidate will work on developing novel beam-shaping techniques, testing RF photoguns, and applying machine learning optimization to improve accelerator performance. Responsibilities include commissioning a new electron source test stand, investigating semiconductor photocathode lifetimes, and contributing to high-profile projects like CERN's Future Circular Collider and SwissFEL upgrades. Candidates will benefit from interdisciplinary research training, state-of-the-art facilities, and enrollment in the ETH Doctoral Programme.

• Commission a new electron source test stand and demonstrate pulse-to-pulse modulation of bunch charge, beam size, and laser pulse energy.
• Compare laser-shaping techniques through beam measurements and build a prototype for photocathode operation.
• Investigate machine learning and AI-based optimization methods to enhance overall system performance.
• Study photocathode and laser performance, evaluating the operating lifetime of semiconductor photocathodes.
• Measure gains in beam brightness resulting from photocathode laser shaping and RF compression.
• Fulfill teaching assistant duties at ETH Zurich as part of the doctoral appointment.