Research Associate

Job Description

We invite applications for a position in experimental Quantum Information Science and Condensed Matter Physics as a Research Associate. This position will be stationed at NIST, Boulder and will be a member of the group of Dr. David Pappas at NIST. The focus of this position will be on the design and measurement of superconducting circuits for quantum simulation applications. The successful applicant should be well trained in experimental quantum information science or quantum materials, preferably in experimental aspects of (i) quantum control and computing, (ii) loss in materials at low temperatures, (iii) Jaynes-Cummings physics.

The position will be focused on the description and characterization of superconducting qubits and will involve single- and multi-qubit tomography, transmon qubits and coherence measurements, gate design and characterization, randomized benchmarking, microwave engineering design and implementation, and the use of simulation software such as Sonnet, Comsol, HFSS, etc. Applicants should be familiar with cryogenic electronics and programming. The position entails working with quantum limited microwave amplifiers, parametric and traveling wave, and with electrical components such as IQ modulators and attenuators. The applicants should also be familiar with programming languages such as Python, Matlab, Labview, Mathematica etc. and should have a demonstrated familiarity with programming general purpose lab equipment and with dilution refrigerator setup, operation, and maintenance. The position also entails working closely with the fabrication team and performing data analysis and presenting the results.

The position includes opportunities for travel to present in conferences. The incumbent will be expected to disseminate the results of their research, both in journal publications and conference presentations. They also will be expected to collaborate with other members of the group.

Required Qualifications

-Masters degree in chemistry or an appropriate related field with an emphasis in either Quantum Information Science or Experimental Condensed Matter/AMO Physics.
- Strong background in theoretical chemistry methodologies.
- Demonstrably significant coding experience.
- Knowledge of Quantum Mechanics.
- Ability to supervise more junior researchers
-Strong work habits and the ability to work independently as well as with a research group.
-Ability to work with limited supervision.
-Strong communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

- Knowledge of quantum simulations of molecules
- Knowledge of fundamental concepts of Quantum Information Processing.
-Evidence of good project management.
-Publications as coauthor, based on personal research.
-Creativity, independence and high motivation.
-Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of personnel in the organization.

Review Date

March 6, 2020

Additional Information

The successful Candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check

About Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech is a public land-grant university, committed to teaching and learning, research, and outreach to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world. Building on its motto of Ut Prosim (that I may serve), Virginia Tech is dedicated to InclusiveVT—serving in the spirit of community, diversity, and excellence. We seek candidates who adopt and practice the Principles of Community, which are fundamental to our on-going efforts to increase access and inclusion, and to create a community that nurtures learning and growth for all of its members. Virginia Tech actively seeks a broad spectrum of candidates to join our community in preparing leaders for the world.

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If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation please contact the hiring department.

Advertised: March 5, 2020
Applications close: