Quantum and Optical Communications-Assistant Staff

About the role

The Optical and Quantum Communication Group develops impactful quantum and classical technologies and system prototypes for use in a wide range of challenging applications in terrestrial, space and underwater environments. The group is seeking a full time Assistant Staff member to contribute to research and development activities for quantum networking and free-space optical communications technologies and systems.

Responsibilities

• Support integration and testing of technologies in a laboratory environment and in laboratory and fielded testbeds
• Support ongoing efforts including quantum technology development and free-space laser communication terminal development and testing
• Interact significantly with other staff working in the group

Technology Development Areas

• Novel entangled-photon source technologies and quantum memory systems
• Novel quantum link architectures
• Sensitive single-photon receivers
• Novel modulation and coding approaches
• Multi-format laser-comm modems
• Robust and compact free-space optical beam directors
• Precision beam pointing, link acquisition and tracking systems
• On-demand entangled photon-sources
• Single-photon detector arrays
• Parametric nonlinear optical devices
• Quantum memory and synchronization subsystems
• Adaptive optics systems
• Optical modem technologies

Field Test Applications

• Terabit-per-second direct-to-Earth small-satellite constellations
• Near-Earth wideband relay laser communication terminal hardware for space and ground terminal use
• Next-generation beam-director prototypes scalable to deep-space optical comm systems
• Quantum state transfer across a regional quantum network testbed

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering or Physics
• Experience or coursework in nonlinear optics and/or quantum mechanics

Pay

• Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $100,200 - $120,000
• Experienced Hiring Range: $100,200 - $150,000

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work-life balance options