Position ID: | FNAL-Particle Physics Division-PPDAS [#18032] |
Position Title: | Associate Scientist (Particle Physics Division) |
Position Type: | Other |
Position Location: | Batavia, Illinois 60510, United States [map] |
Subject Area: | Astrophysics / Dark Matter |
Appl Deadline: | 2021/02/25 11:59PM![]() |
Position Description: |
Open Date: January 28, 2021 Close Date: February 25, 2021 Fermilab is America’s premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and South Dakota and locations around the world, including Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, and the South Pole. The Fermilab Particle Physics Division is seeking outstanding candidates to fill an Associate Scientist position for the synergistic development of dark matter detectors and solid-state quantum sensors. The successful candidate will study the effects of ionizing radiation on the coherence time of solid-state qubits, which is currently a technological limitation in their implementation for quantum computers. The candidate will simultaneously drive an experimental program to explore the use of quantum sensors for dark matter detection. It is expected that such a program will complement existing dark matter efforts within the Fermilab Cosmic Physics Center. The Fermilab Cosmic Physics Center has several ongoing efforts dedicated to the development of quantum sensors for dark matter detection. These include: • A testing program for cryogenic dark matter detectors with the underground NEXUS facility, located in the Fermilab MINOS near detector hall. This includes next-generation detectors for SuperCDMS and related technologies. • Lead lab for the Axion Dark Matter eXperiment (ADMX) • Working within the Department of Energy QuantISED R&D consortium, exploring several new quantum sensor technologies for single photon detection at microwave to optical wavelengths. • Development of skipper CCD’s for next generation dark matter experiments (SENSEI/OSCURA) The successful candidate will become a member of the Quantum Science Center (QSC), a National Quantum Initiative (NQI) research center which blends expertise in diverse fields including particle physics, condensed matter physics, materials science, and computer science from its 16 member institutions to develop new quantum devices, sensors, materials and algorithms. These efforts will capitalize on a broad range of scientific, computing, engineering, and technical expertise available at Fermilab, particularly in the areas of cryogenic detector instrumentation and low background dark matter detectors. This position also provides opportunities to collaborate with other aspects of the Fermilab’s strong and growing QIS program, including efforts in the Fermi Quantum Institute (FQI) and the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems center (SQMS). We seek exceptional candidates with a proven research record in experimental particle physics, cryogenic detector development, and/or experimental quantum information science. The appointment is for an initial term of three years extendable by an additional three years prior to evaluation for a permanent position. The successful candidate will respect, understand and value individual differences that embody the principles of diversity and abide by all environment, safety and health regulations. You Will • Design, build, and test detectors based on quantum sensors • Develop a new underground test stand for characterizing quantum sensors • Characterize coherence times and error rates in solid-state qubits in a low-background environment • Work to develop a multiplexed testbed for an array of quantum sensors • Perform dark matter searches with test sensors • Work in an underground environment • Publish scientific and technical papers • Present work at scientific conferences, workshops, and reviews We Are Looking For • A PhD in experimental physics (particle physics, AMO, condensed matter) or related field • At least two years of post-doctoral experience (or equivalent) in above fields (preferred) • Experience with solid-state devices and electronics (preferred) • Expertise with sub-Kelvin cryogenic techniques and radiofrequency instrumentation (preferred) • Knowledge of quantum information science technologies (preferred) • Experience in background mitigation techniques, such as material screening, simulations and noise reduction (preferred) • Experience performing direct-detection, dark matter searches (preferred) • Ability to work effectively under the requirements of schedules and shifting priorities • Ability to work effectively with other individuals and within groups of varying composition • Demonstrated ability to quickly grasp new concepts from other fields and engage in cross-disciplinary research
• Demonstrated ability to carry out independent research • A record of scientific accomplishments, publications, and other products of research. • Demonstrated oral and written communication skills, including the preparation and delivery of papers, reports, and presentations • Willingness to travel to conferences, meetings and collaborative work at remote partner institutions • The potential to contribute to Fermilab and broader scientific community in a way that will subsequently lead to an appointment as a permanent member of the Fermilab scientific staff Application Instructions Interested candidates should submit via Academic Jobs Online: • Cover letter • Curriculum Vitae • Research Statement • Publication List • Three or more reference letters (to be submitted by the reference writers) https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/18032 For general information about this position, please contact Lauren Hsu LLHsu@fnal.gov Fermilab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply.
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