Experimental Postdoc – Quantum Computing and Networking

About the role

The Experimental Postdoc will lead a multi-platform quantum computing and networking effort within ESnet, collaborating with the AMCR and NERSC divisions at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL).

Responsibilities

• Build and operate experimental platforms for laser-cooled neutral atoms and rare-earth-ion-doped crystals.
• Develop and maintain experimental control systems, including hardware and electronics.
• Perform experiments involving coherent manipulation of multi-qubit platforms and their optical interconnection for quantum networking.
• Analyze experimental results using appropriate numerical and computational techniques.
• Collaborate closely with theory teams to support experiments and develop new ideas.
• Provide technical feedback to engineering and architecture teams for evaluating practical large-scale implementations.
• Assist with project coordination and contribute to the preparation of project deliverables.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
• Disseminate research findings through publications in high-impact journals and presentations at national and international conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. (and/or prior postdoctoral experience) in quantum computing, quantum optics, quantum networking, or a closely related field.
• Strong experimental background in at least one qubit platform, such as neutral-atom arrays, trapped ions, rare-earth-ion-doped crystals, or other matter-based qubit systems used in quantum computing or networking.
• Extensive hands-on experience with ultra-high-vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, coherent laser systems and stabilization, and experimental electronics and control software.
• Demonstrated experience in the design and implementation of optical systems for trapping, imaging, and addressing single atoms/ions and/or photonic device development for solid-state qubit platforms.
• Solid understanding of light–matter quantum interfaces, including optical quantum memories, entangled photon sources, atom–cavity systems, and optical-domain quantum frequency conversion.

Qualifications

• Familiarity with theoretical frameworks and systems-engineering approaches to large-scale distributed quantum computing.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams composed of scientists, engineers, and students.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with experience presenting research findings in group settings and at national/international conferences.

Skills/Knowledge

• Familiarity with theoretical frameworks and systems-engineering approaches to large-scale distributed quantum computing.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams composed of scientists, engineers, and students.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with experience presenting research findings in group settings and at national/international conferences.

Benefits

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans.
• A culture where you’ll belong - we are invested in our teams!
• In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers).

Pay

The salary range for this position is $6,924 - $8,026 and is expected to start at $6,924 or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.

Schedule

This is a full-time 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience.