Master Thesis Placement in system-identification of the SLS2 storage-ring RF and analysis of the electron beam-response to RF-modulation
Join to apply for the Master Thesis Placement in system-identification of the SLS2 storage-ring RF and analysis of the electron beam-response to RF-modulation role at Swiss Light Source. The Master Thesis Placement takes place at the PSI Center for Accelerator Science and Engineering.
The Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. It conducts cutting‑edge research in future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation, and fundamentals of nature. PSI employs 2,300 people and commits to training future generations.
In the SLS2 storage‑ring, electron bunches travel almost at the speed of light and emit light at bending magnets and undulators. The RF system of the SLS2 storage‑ring restores the energy with four 500 MHz RF cavities and stabilises the electrons longitudinally. The passive, superconducting third‑harmonic cavity lengthens the bunches and increases the beam lifetime.
Amplitude‑ and phase noise on the 500 MHz main cavities can affect beam quality, such as energy and energy spread. Therefore, the signal‑path, amplifiers and feedback system should be characterised and optimised.
Controlled amplitude‑ and phase modulation can reduce transient beam‑loading and intra‑beam scattering, measure the beam response, and potentially lead to energy‑spread oscillations with minima lower than the natural energy spread.
Your tasks
* Model the RF system, measure system characteristics at the teststand and at the storage ring with a stored electron beam, and improve the model and parameters.
* Include RF‑modulation, the harmonic cavity and the second‑order momentum compaction factor into the Hamiltonian of synchrotron motion, and analyse the evolution of the RF bucket.
* Try to reduce transient beam‑loading effects.
* Advanced task (for experienced students): Evaluate the potential of RF‑modulation to reduce the energy‑spread (minima of the oscillation) in synchrotrons.
Your profile
* Foundational knowledge of calculus, linear algebra, and complex numbers.
* Proficiency in writing simple scripts in Python or Matlab.
* Interest in RF‑systems for synchrotrons.
* General interest in particle accelerators.
We offer
Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. The maximum duration will be around 6 months, preferably starting in early 2026. Please note: the master’s thesis does not involve employment at PSI.
For further information, please contact Dr Lukas Stingelin, phone +41 56 310 58 41. Please submit your application online for the master thesis project (index no. 8413‑25852).
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