Postdoc: Trapped Ion Quantum Clocks and Precision Timing Systems

About the role

JPL seeks to employ scientists and engineers who are passionate about lifelong learning and excited to both contribute to and lead team efforts. We emphasize the importance of partnering across discipline boundaries and creating a friendly, constructive work environment to overcome space exploration's challenges.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and experimentally operate trapped ion clock systems
• Support research on mercury ion and ytterbium optical clock technologies
• Support research on relevant quantum technologies in the group as opportunities and interests arise
• Develop and optimize laser, vacuum, and control systems for precision timing experiments
• Conduct performance characterization and data analysis of ion clock systems
• Contribute to experimental investigations of next-generation quantum timing technologies
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across JPL and partner institutions

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Quantum Optics, Atomic Physics, or a related field
• Experience with laser systems, optics, precision measurement techniques, and vacuum instrumentation
• Strong background in atomic physics, precision measurements, and quantum optics
• Demonstrated research productivity through peer-reviewed publications

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experimental experience with trapped ion systems, cold atom systems, Bose-Einstein condensate, or atomic clock technologies
• Familiarity with quantum measurement, control techniques, and precision frequency standards
• Experience developing experimental hardware and laboratory instrumentation
• Experience with microwave ion or optical clock systems
• Programming and data analysis experience relevant to laboratory automation and experimental control
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment

Benefits

JPL offers a variety of benefits and perks including health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave, and more. For further benefits information, click here.