Postdoctoral Associate

Job Summary

The Quantum Nanophotonics group has recently demonstrated hybrid systems combining semiconductor optical quantum dots (QDs) and acoustic resonators as a promising platform for quantum information processing and transmission. All aspects of this work are performed ‘in house’ using NIST’s state‑of‑the‑art nanofabrication, molecular beam epitaxy, and low‑temperature optical spectroscopy tools. The successful candidate will help lead this project, building on recent accomplishments, towards the goal of generating remote entanglement between superconducting qubits.

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields.

Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration’s scientific research.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

PREP is a special partnership between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the University of Colorado Boulder. PREP provides research opportunities to CU undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in NIST labs to gain research experience alongside NIST scientists. The particular group that needs a researcher is the Quantum Nanophotonics Group at NIST.

• Design and construct GHz frequency acoustic resonators in Gallium Arsenide.
• Precision spectroscopy of Indium Arsenide quantum dots (QDs) embedded in acoustical resonators.
• Epitaxial growth and nanofabrication of QD hybrid quantum systems.
• Analyze and interpret the microwave and optical characteristics of the hybrid microwave/optical system.
• Work as a member of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.
• Provide technical input to research problems which have been recognized as critical obstacles to progress in areas of exceptional interest.
• Prepare and review journal publications, contributing important advancements to quantum optics, quantum networking, optical communications, and optical measurement techniques.
• Attend research conferences and present technical results.

• Doctoral degree in Physics or closely related field.

• Expertise in spectroscopy on optical two‑level systems at cryogenic temperatures, with specific emphasis on the resonance‑florescence method.
• Expertise in growth of compound semiconductors using Molecular Beam Epitaxy.
• Experience running and maintaining state‑of‑the‑art nanofabrication tools.
• Experience with optical measurement techniques such as coherent detection, confocal microscopy, laser diagnostics, noise characterization, and statistical optics.
• Experience in cryogenic measurements at liquid Helium temperatures.
• Experience in finite‑element simulation of semiconductor electro‑mechanical devices.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to code with: MATLAB or Python.
• Experience with maintaining and running a dilution refrigerator.

• The salary range for this full‑time position is $74,000 - $108,000 annually.

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well‑being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic…