The Quantum Information Science Group in the Materials Science Division (MSD) and Center for Molecular Engineering at Argonne National Lab (ANL) is looking for candidates to fill an assistant staff scientist position to help lead a quantum materials synthesis effort exploring novel research topics including new optically-active point defects in diamond and Silicon Carbide, engineered nanostructures, and hybrid quantum systems. A successful candidate will be part of a dynamic team working with a group of scientists from Argonne, University of Chicago, and beyond, using spin-qubits in solid-state systems for a wide range of research from quantum sensing to quantum communication applications.  

The candidate will primarily be responsible for:

• Development of growth and synthesis methods for engineered materials for quantum information processing
• Development of new form factors and nano-engineered structures of quantum relevant materials for quantum information processing.
• Photoluminescence and optical characterization of quantum information science relevant materials synthesis and defects.
• Developing novel characterization and control techniques of quantum defect systems using synthesis, nanofabrication, and defect creation methods, including but not limited to synchrotron and tabletop XRD, XPS, EPR, optical characterization, etc.
• Synthesis and characterization surface states relevant for quantum defects.
• Exploring quantum interactions between various quantum materials and means to integrate them while maintaining qubit quality.

The candidate will be expected to develop collaborations with other scientists at Argonne and abroad, mentor graduate students and post-doctoral students in the Quantum Materials group, engage with the Quantum Information Science community at Argonne, and students of university collaborators. 

The candidate is expected to develop new scientific directions and programs.  The candidate is expected to publish results in a refereed journal and make oral presentation at meetings, conferences, symposia, and seminars.  They are expected to maintain a knowledge of the latest developments in the field and related groups through interactions and collaborative efforts.  The candidate will also participate in maintaining technical reports and other documents associated with the operation of the optics lab, along with reports on experimental progress, technical developments, and new initiatives to peer reviews and program managers.

Position Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

• A Ph.D. in Physics, Applied physics, Electrical engineering, or related field.
• At least 3 years of post-doctoral experience in quantum materials and quantum optics.
• Ability to work without constant direction in the performance of routine tasks.
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
• Normal daytime work hours at the Argonne site, but occasional travel and some overtime/nighttime may be required.

Considerable:

• Considerable knowledge and experience of spin physics in solid-state systems is required.
• Direct research experience in quantum material systems used for quantum information and quantum sensing protocols.
• Considerable knowledge in quantum information, quantum characterization and control, as well as spin decoherence theory.

• Direct experience with optics, spectroscopy, and optically active point defects in quantum materials.
• Direct experience in characterization and understand of charge, strain, and thermal dynamics within solid-state systems.
• Experience in electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR, ODMR) and other spin characterization techniques.

• Considerable skill in written and oral communication.
• Good collaboration skills and ability to work with a team in an interdisciplinary environment.

Desirable:

• Experience with automation, computer interfacing, machine learning.
• Experience with advanced data analysis of large datasets implemented in languages such as Python or Matlab.
• Experience with microwave, electrical engineering, telecom devices, and fiber optics

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