Discover TRIUMF, Canada's particle accelerator centre, and one of the world's leading laboratories for particle and nuclear physics and accelerator-based science. TRIUMF's diverse community of nearly 600 multidisciplinary researchers, engineers, technicians, tradespeople, staff, and students create a unique incubator for Canadian excellence, as well as a portal to premier global collaborations. Fueling innovation and improving lives, we are committed to accelerating discovery and shaping a better world.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to excellence and enhance our ability to create knowledge and opportunity for all. Together, we are committed to building an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the voices of our employees, students, partners, and the people and communities we serve.
TRIUMF’s student program typically hires ~40 students each term from across all disciplines who hang together socially and professionally during the term, and beyond. Our program offers young minds a chance to gather, learn, make new friends, and have fun doing so during their time at TRIUMF. We hold weekly ProD sessions for students which include different activities such as conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and active listening. Additionally, we hold weekly seminars about the different experiments at TRIUMF, and these talks specifically cater to students. Located on the UBC campus makes it easier for students to make friends, create memories, and explore Vancouver all while working at TRIUMF.
TRIUMF’s student program is more than just a place to work, its learning, memories, friendships, exploration, and development all clubbed into one.
Come join us to see how we are working to unlock the mysteries of the universe and shape the future. Apply now and be part of our extraordinary journey.
Learn more about the amazing research and work we do at TRIUMF.
https://www.discoverourlab.triumf.ca
Neutrino properties from decays of spin-polarized, laser-cooled atoms
We want to improve our atomic physics probes of the location and spin direction of our trapped radioactive atoms. By measuring the momentum of the electron and the recoiling much heavier final nucleus produced in beta decay, we can deduce the momentum of the neutrino without detecting it. We can also spin-polarize the nuclei, measuring the average direction of all particles emitted with respect to that spin. The asymmetry in direction of the electrons wrt the spin was first measured by C.S. Wu to show that parity is broken in the weak interaction-- there is complementary physics in the asymmetry of the other particles as well. Since both momentum and angular momentum are conserved, the average neutrino direction ends up depending on its helicity, i.e. the direction of its spin with respect to its motion. All neutrinos known in nature are left-handed in that sense (and all antineutrinos are right-handed), so we look precisely at average directions for evidence if they ever have the opposite handedness. Related high-energy particle physics searches for new forces are improving all the time, and to keep pace we want to improve our experimental precision.
Most of our particle detection development is done by postdocs and grad students, while the undergrads have well-defined projects using optics and atomic physics techniques to improve the atom trapping and spin polarization. These atomic physics projects will start by using stable potassium atoms readily available to us. This mimics the atomic behaviour of the radioactive isotopes of potassium we trap produced by TRIUMF's main cyclotron, which happens later in the term.
https://trinat.triumf.ca has some general info
-Optimizing our upgraded circularly polarized laser system on potassium atom observables-- that includes multi-parameter data analysis using ROOT.
-Understanding and monitoring PID frequency locking of lasers to trap atoms, based on a general technique called saturation spectroscopy.
-Start analysis of one observable sensitive to neutrino helicity.
-Optics characterization and alignment.
-Control programming.
-Atomic physics data acquisition and analysis.
-Error analysis for precision measurements
-Physics or Engineering Physics student preferred. Optics course and/or lab would be an asset.
-Quantum mechanics including the hydrogen atom would be helpful to understand the atom trapping.
-C++ programming would be an asset.
NUCLEAR ENERGY WORKER:
The incumbent will be required to successfully complete the TRIUMF in-house radiation safety training course and be designated as a TRIUMF Nuclear Energy Worker.
Skills required:
Atomic Physics, C++ Programming Language, Engineering Physics, Optics, Physics, Quantum MechanicsTRIUMF, Canada's national laboratory for particle and nuclear physics, is situated on the vibrant south campus of the University of British Columbia, nestled within the beautiful Pacific Spirit Park in Vancouver, BC.
At TRIUMF, we value our employees and are committed to providing a competitive total rewards package. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer comprehensive benefits that promote the well-being and security of our staff. Our organization provides an excellent opportunity to grow your career in a high-profile national research facility, where you can make a difference.
If you are passionate about science, engineering and technology, driven to excel, and eager to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking organization, we encourage you to apply. Take the next step in your career journey with TRIUMF.
TRIUMF offers help with travel costs for students outside the Vancouver and surrounding area.
Applications must have the following documents uploaded:
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Applications closing date:
May 19, 2025Period of Work (possible 4 month extension):
September 02, 2025-December 19, 2025Salary is commensurate with academic progress and previous relevant work experience, and ranges from $ 2642 to $ 4051 per month including 4% vacation pay.
TRIUMF is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace, and we welcome applications from all qualified undergraduate students as defined below (unless stated otherwise above):
Canadian undergraduate students or Canadian Permanent Resident undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution in Canada (or outside Canada) who are studying in a vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.
Foreign full-time undergraduate students currently enrolled at a designated learning institution at the post-secondary level, and who are studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate that is at least six months in duration, and who have a valid Canadian study permit which allows for employment off-campus, and who have applied for a Social Insurance Number
Foreign undergraduate students enrolled in a recognized undergraduate program of study abroad who have accepted, or are in the process of accepting, an "Invitation to Apply" for a work permit under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program http://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec/apply-work-permit.html.
At TRIUMF, we’re passionate about accelerating discovery and innovation to improve lives and build a better world. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to excellence and enhance our ability to create knowledge and opportunity for all.
Together, we are committed to building an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the voices of our employees, students, partners, and the people and communities we serve.
Contact information:
Email: student@triumf.ca
Phone: 604.222.1047
Fax: 604.222.3791
4004 Wesbrook Mall
Vancouver, BC
V6T 2A3
Monthly based
TRIUMF,Canada
TRIUMF,Canada