Quantum Optics Network Research Associate

The expected hiring range for this position is:

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

The Fermilab Quantum Institute Division (QID) seeks outstanding applicants for a postdoctoral Research Associate position in quantum communications. Fermilab QID leverages existing expertise, infrastructure, and partners with leading QIS researchers to pursue high-impact QIS research and development while advancing high-energy physics applications. In this pursuit, FQI takes advantage of new quantum capabilities and builds the capacity necessary for the applications deployment. In support of the Fermilab science program and HEP science objectives, FQI engages with QIS initiatives across the entire DOE Office of Science.

The Quantum Communications Group is seeking an outstanding postdoctoral Quantum Optics Network Research Associate who will support the current research towards achieving a functional high-rate quantum network in the Chicago metropolitan areas for a fixed ter. The group has achieved record-high fidelity quantum teleportation and entanglement swapping protocols and is leading the DOEs AQ-NET (Advanced Quantum Networks for Science Discovery) multi-year project to develop the next generation of quantum networks through the development of ultra-high-rate entanglement, hyperentangled sources, quantum error mitigation and correction protocols, and hybrid free-space to fiber quantum network links. The selected candidate will benefit strongly from our groups close collaborations with world-leading scientists working in areas of quantum optics, analog and digital electronics and ASICs, and quantum sensing.

What your day-to-day as a Quantum Optics Network Research Associate at Fermilab will look like:

• Develop theories within the areas of particle physics, accelerator science and technology, astrophysics, or cosmology. Assess the feasibility of testing theories experimentally.
• Design, build, install or commission new or upgraded elements of experiments or particle accelerators.
• Participate in data acquisition, conduct analysis and present/publish outcomes at conferences and/or in refereed journals.
• Participate in new and ongoing research in quantum communications and quantum sensors.
• Lead the ongoing efforts to develop high-rate entanglement sources and demonstrate complex long-range quantum networking protocols with multiple nodes.
• Write peer-reviewed publications and technical reports for internal and external release and represent the organization by giving technical presentations in large public forums.
• Mentoring of graduate students and research interns at Fermilab participating in the quantum network projects.

Required Skills and Attributes for Success:

• Appointees usually have recently completed their PhD (often within the last two years) or are expected to complete it within the current calendar year.

Applicable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Experience in experimental optical telecommunications or experimental quantum communications is required.
• Experience in fiber-based quantum communication, coherent optical communication, fiber optics components, and single photon detection will be highly valued.
• Excellent English written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Work Arrangement:

Please note that the described work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs and is not guaranteed to be final.

• Onsite: This is an onsite role, and the candidate must be able to work from our Batavia office.

Benefits/Perks:
Fermilab offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program, including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• Short and Long-term disability insurance
• Retirement benefits
• Onsite day care
  

Why Fermilab:
Fermilab is Americas premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations around the world, including deep underground mines in South Dakota and Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, CERN in Europe and the South Pole.

Drug-Free Workplace & Pre-Employment Screening

Fermilab is dedicated to fostering a safe, productive, and drug-free work environment. As part of the hiring process, candidates must successfully complete a background check and drug screening. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of these screenings.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.

REAL-ID Requirement for access to Fermilab Campus
Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL-ID, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of ID can be found here: . If a candidate is selected for an interview but does not possess any of the equivalent documents, we may schedule a virtual interview.

What To Expect Next:
Well be in touch! If your qualifications are in alignment with the position requirements, one of our recruiters will be reaching out to schedule a phone interview to learn more about your career interests and goals. In the meantime, we encourage you to check us out on Facebook , X , Instagram , LinkedIn , or our About Us page.