Open Date:       October 11, 2021

Close Date:       December 17, 2021 

We Are

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, in collaboration with the Fermi Quantum Institute, seeks outstanding candidates for multiple post-doctoral Research Associates in the development of quantum sensors for the detection of dark matter.  A major goal of these studies will be understanding the relationship between ionizing radiation and qubit decoherence, which will advance development of both quantum computing and the design of next-generation dark matter detectors.  Successful candidates will develop two cryogenic test stands, one of which will be located in NuMI hall, an underground laboratory at Fermilab.  They will also use these facilities to lead the design, operation, and analysis of data from dark matter detectors based on qubits and other quantum sensor technologies. This position is aimed at exceptional recent PhD recipients with a proven research record in experimental physics, cryogenic detector development, experimental quantum information science and/or related fields.

This position provides the opportunity to participate in new projects targeting dark matter, and related detector R&D, while capitalizing on the broad expertise available at the laboratory. Current focus areas include, but are not limited to, photon counting via quantum non-demolition measurements, Cooper pair breaking sensors, and quantum-limited amplification.  The Fermilab Cosmic Physics Center has several ongoing synergistic efforts dedicated to the development of quantum sensors for dark matter detection, which include development of next-generation sensors for direct detection of low-mass dark matter (SuperCDMS and SENSEI/OSCURA) and for next-generation axion searches including ADMX.

Successful candidates will become a member of Fermilab Cosmic Physics Center and also the Quantum Science Center (QSC).  The latter is 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.  This position may also provide opportunities to collaborate with other aspects of Fermilab’s strong and growing QIS program, including efforts in the Fermi Quantum Institute (FQI) and the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems center (SQMS). 

The position is for a period of up to three (3) years with the potential for extension considered on a yearly basis thereafter.

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

• Designing, building, and testing detectors based on quantum sensors
• Characterizing coherence times and error rates in solid-state qubits in a low-background environment
• Working to develop a multiplexed testbed for an array of quantum sensors
• Performing dark matter searches with test sensors
• Working in an underground environment
• Publishing scientific and technical papers
• Presenting work at scientific conferences, workshops, and reviews
• Contributes effectively within a diverse workforce and upholds Fermilab’s dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

We Are Looking For

• PhD in experimental physics (particle physics, AMO, condensed matter) or related field
• Demonstrated ability to carry out independent research
• 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
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Device/hardware development
• Demonstrated ability to quickly grasp new concepts from other fields and engage in cross-disciplinary research

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit via Academic Jobs Online: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/20001

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Research Statement
• Publication List
• Three reference letters (to be submitted by the reference writers at the AJO site).

For general information about this position, please contact Lauren Hsu, LLHsu@fnal.gov

Fermilab is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Fermilab is an Equal Opportunity Employer and believes a diverse and inclusive environment based on mutual respect is essential to our mission. Fermilab is committed to recruiting and developing the most talented people and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, country of birth, geography/postal code, disability, marital status, parental or gestational status, or other non-merit factor.

All FRA employees are required to be vaccinated for COVID-19, unless the employee is legally entitled to an accommodation based on a medical condition/disability or a sincerely held religious belief.