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Postdoctoral Research Associate

Brookhaven Lab

Job Description


Brookhaven National Laboratory (www.bnl.gov) delivers discovery science and transformative technology to power and secure the nation’s future. Brookhaven Lab is a multidisciplinary laboratory with seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, 37 R&D 100 Awards, and more than 70 years of pioneering research. The Lab is primarily supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science. Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) operates and manages the Laboratory for DOE. BSA is a partnership between Battelle and The Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University.


Organizational Overview

The mission of the Instrumentation Division is to develop state-of-the-art instrumentation required for experimental research programs at Brookhaven Lab and to maintain the expertise and facilities in specialized high technology areas essential for this work. Development of facilities is motivated by present Brookhaven research programs and anticipated future directions of research. Our work has a significant impact on programs throughout the world that rely on state-of-the-art radiation detectors, quantum systems, and readout electronics.


Position Description

Experimental and practical Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST) is a key area of R&D for BNL. The successful candidate will join a fast-growing QIST group centered in our Instrumentation Division and working in close collaboration with the QIST group at Stony Brook University. The applicant will be an integral part of the research activities of the recently founded Center for Distributed Quantum Processing and the Long Island Quantum Internet Testbed. Our primary area is the development of long-distance quantum networking science and technology, centered on atomic-based quantum memories and quantum repeaters, with the goal of building regional-scale quantum internet services. Other active areas of research include quantum transduction technology for interfacing with cryogenic quantum computers; quantum sensors, with applications in astronomy and high energy physics; and improved, device-independent quantum cryptography techniques. The successful candidate will be able to immediately and productively participate in the group’s experimental efforts, while also having a sufficient theoretical understanding to propose and carry out new and independent work. 

This is a two-year Postdoctoral Research Associate position. Appointment level will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design, build, test and operate quantum optics experiments and devices oriented toward long-distance quantum networking
  • Analyze results and prepare scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals
  • Develop new, actionable ideas and approaches in a fast-evolving QIST field
  • Collaborate and communicate successfully with a diverse, multi-institutional group of researchers

Position Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • PhD in Physics or other directly QIST-relevant field
  • Demonstrated understanding of quantum information concepts
  • Demonstrated ability in experimental quantum optics, basic laboratory skills
  • Proficiency in Python, Matlab, or C for instrumentation in AMO physical systems
  • Knowledge of RF electronics and PID systems
  • Effective interpersonal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work in a collaborative scientific environment and across disciplines

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Years of experience (post PhD) in QIST-relevant fields
  • Familiarity with entangled photon sources and/or photonic quantum entanglement
  • Basic knowledge of cavity-assisted quantum systems
  • Experience working with hot vapors and/or laser-cooled atomic systems
  • Familiarity with non-linear light-matter interfaces
  • Practical experience with Superconductive Nanowire Single Photon Detectors (SNSPDs)
  • Familiarity with FPGA boards
  • May require travel
  • Understanding coherent interaction and control in atomic systems
  • Practical experience with long-distance optical fiber and/or free-space communication

BNL policy requires that after obtaining their PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness or other life-changing events.

At Brookhaven National Laboratory we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive. Our benefits program includes, but is not limited to:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Care Plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Time-off and Leave Programs (vacation, holidays, sick leave, paid parental leave)
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
  • Tuition Assistance, Training and Professional Development Programs
  • Employee Fitness/Wellness & Recreation:  Gym/Basketball Courts, Weight Room, Fitness Classes, Indoor Pool, Tennis Courts, Sports Clubs/Activities (Basketball, Ping Pong, Softball, Tennis)

Brookhaven Science Associates requires proof of a COVID-19 vaccination for all employees. Proof of full vaccination as recognized by the CDC and/or WHO is required at the start of your employment.

Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is an equal opportunity employer that values inclusion and diversity at our Lab. We are committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a veteran, disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

BNL takes affirmative action in support of its policy and to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

*VEVRAA Federal Contractor


Brookhaven employees are subject to restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Talent Recruitment Programs, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation at the time of hire for review by Brookhaven. The full text of the Order may be found at: https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0486.1-BOrder-a/@@images/file


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