Research Assoc-Experimental

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory’s Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) seeks a Research Associate with a strong experimental background in quantum science, particularly in fields relevant to device applications. The successful candidate will join the Soft X-ray Group in the Materials Sciences Division to lead efforts expanding SSRL’s research program into quantum information science (QIS).

About the role

The Research Associate will address challenges in QIS applications through advanced X-ray techniques, foster interdisciplinary collaboration across SLAC and Stanford University, and contribute to the Soft X-ray Group’s frontier research on quantum materials. The position offers opportunities to publish lead-author manuscripts and develop new experimental capabilities.

This is a fixed-term, two-year staff position beginning immediately, with the possibility of extension contingent upon project needs and funding. SLAC requires onsite work at its Menlo Park, CA facility.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead a research program in QIS and related materials and applications at SSRL.
• Explore QIS research topics, with emphasis on applying X-ray techniques.
• Utilize SSRL’s soft X-ray beamlines, particularly for scattering, to study quantum materials.
• Support general user groups in their experiments.
• Develop new experimental capabilities for future science.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in physics, materials science, applied physics, or a related discipline.
• Research experience in materials science, preferably in quantum materials.
• Knowledge and experience with QIS and/or device applications (strongly desired).
• Demonstrated competence in operating and maintaining complex experimental systems.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting X-ray scattering measurements at synchrotron facilities.
• Experience handling 2-dimensional materials and heterostructures.

About Us

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, operated by Stanford University for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science, explores the universe at the biggest, smallest, and fastest scales. As world leaders in ultrafast science, SLAC invents powerful tools used by researchers globally, forging new ground in quantum technology, scientific computing, and next-generation accelerators. The Soft X-ray Group at SSRL has established frontier research programs on quantum materials using state-of-the-art resonant X-ray scattering capabilities.