Intern - LCLS Research Support
Ora
Summary
The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at SLAC National Accelerator Lab is the world's first hard X-ray free electron laser. LCLS produces pulses of X-rays more than a billion times brighter than the most powerful existing synchrotron sources. Scientists use these highly focused, intense beams of X-rays to reveal the identity and arrangement of atoms in a wide range of materials.
Job description
Position Overview
The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at SLAC National Accelerator Lab is the world's first hard X-ray free electron laser. LCLS produces pulses of X-rays more than a billion times brighter than the most powerful existing synchrotron sources. Scientists use these highly focused, intense beams of X-rays to reveal the identity and arrangement of atoms in a wide range of materials.
Internship Program
LCLS has a centrally managed summer internship program for students currently enrolled in an educational program or recently graduated. Each intern is partnered with a mentor, typically a scientist, engineer, or other technical staff, who directs the internship project during the summer. The primary goal of the program is to provide interns with a stimulating, real-world research experience. Technical projects are matched to the interests and skills of each intern but are ultimately determined by the programmatic needs of the facility.
Example Laboratory Projects From Previous Internships
- Design of instrument and measurement of the timing jitter between ultrafast laser pulses
- Development of a non-linear optical system for high-contrast laser pulses
- Development of multi-photon pulse-width diagnostic
- Micro-machining capillaries for deep-UV jet sources
- Design and construction of an ultra-high vacuum experimental chamber for attoscience experiments
- Characterization of reflectivity and dispersion characteristics of optical coatings
- ASIC development for high-speed X-ray detectors
- Characterization of a pulsed sample delivery system for X-ray protein crystallography
- Characterization of saturable absorption properties of laser safety glass
- Characterization of beam pointing stabilization system
Example Programming/Modeling Projects
- Analysis of data from LCLS experiments on X-ray interactions with diatomic molecules
- Modeling of ultrafast laser propagation through dispersive media
- Modeling of THz generation by coherent transition radiation
- Implementation of on-line data analysis algorithms for LCLS experiments
- Interfacing centralized data acquisition system with laser timing system
- Analysis of publication data to determine scientific productivity of facility
To Be Successful In This Position
- Must be currently enrolled in an educational program or recently graduated in engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science or related field
- Problem-solving and analysis skills
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
- Organizational skills and ability to multi-task and complete assignments
Requirements
- Must be currently enrolled in an educational program or recently graduated in engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science or related field
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have or be able to timely acquire US work authorization
- Problem-solving and analysis skills
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
- Organizational skills and ability to multi-task and complete assignments
Benefits
- Stanford Campus Housing
Company overview
Ora is the world's leading full-service ophthalmic drug and device development firm, operating as a specialized contract research organization (CRO) focused exclusively on ophthalmology. Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, the company has over 45 years of experience in advancing eye care innovations globally. Ora provides comprehensive research and development services spanning preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory strategy, and product development for both pharmaceutical and medical device companies. With operations across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Asia, the company has helped clients achieve more than 85 product approvals to date. Ora's expertise covers a wide range of ophthalmic conditions including allergy, dry eye, retina diseases, glaucoma, and anti-infective therapies. The company employs over 500 ophthalmology specialists who utilize proprietary clinical models, integrated data solutions, and global regulatory strategies to accelerate product development from concept to market. Ora serves a diverse client base ranging from startups to global pharmaceutical and device companies, positioning itself as the trusted partner for ophthalmic innovation worldwide.