Postdoctoral Appointee – Experimental Quantum Sensing – Onsite

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We are seeking a Postdoctoral Appointee to pursue experimental research in quantum sensing with Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers in diamond. The research will involve spatially resolved AC and DC magnetic imaging using a home build Quantum Diamond Microscope (QDM). We are seeking candidates to develop and utilize their expertise in experimental science, specifically optics, spins resonance, and general quantum information science. Candidates will work with a team of experts in microscopy, quantum sensing, and single photon emitters to perform magnetic imaging for failure analysis of quantum and classical computing hardware.

On any given day, you may be called upon to:

• Build microscopes for optically detected magnetic resonance of NV centers.
• Design experiments for detection and characterization of AC or DC magnetic signals using NV centers.
• Use and develop control software written in python for experiments and data analysis.
• Engage in and develop hetero-integration processes to optimize NV sensor signal.
• Collaborate with a diverse team, including experimentalists, engineers, and theorists.

Due to the nature of this work the selected applicant will need to work onsite.

• Possess, or pursuing, a PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field, (PhD must be conferred within 5 years prior to employment)
• experience performing original experimental research in a laboratory environment, demonstrated through a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals or external presentations at scientific conferences.
• Able to acquire and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance

Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Quantum information science or quantum sensing
• Experimental characterization of quantum systems
• Optics and Microscopy
• Digital Signal Processing
• Low noise and RF measurement techniques
• Basic nano/micro device fabrication experience
• Electron or nuclear spin resonance spectroscopy
• Scientific programming for efficient data collection

The Quantum Phenomena Department 1879 is part of the Materials, Physical, and Chemical Sciences Center at Sandia National Laboratories which creates new scientific knowledge in support of Sandia’s national security mission. We provide science-based solutions to meet the needs of various offices within the Department of Energy as well as other government agencies. The department has a broad range of research programs that include theory and experiment relating to quantum-based computation, quantum information transmission, and fundamental science including quantum materials and quantum optics. Our work spans the spectrum from fundamental research to state-of-the-art technology applications. Current technology areas of focus include quantum computing hardware based on spins in silicon devices, superconductors, and defects in diamond.

This posting will be open for Application submissions for a minimum of seven (7) calendar days, including the ‘posting date’. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.

Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.

Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.

If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.

If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sandia National Laboratories, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.

This postdoctoral position is a temporary position for up to one year, which may be renewed at Sandia’s discretion up to five additional years. The PhD must have been conferred within five years prior to employment.

Individuals in postdoctoral positions may bid on regular Sandia positions as internal candidates, and in some cases may be converted to regular career positions during their term if warranted by ongoing operational needs, continuing availability of funds, and satisfactory job performance.