Research AMO Physicist, Quantum Sensing

Location

Princeton, NJ | United States

Job description

SRI International is an independent, non-profit, research institute, delivering unique, scientist-driven solutions for the world’s important challenges. Our SRI campus in Princeton, NJ has an immediate on-site opening for a Research Physicist to support the growth of our quantum sensing program activity. We are seeking a candidate with excellent working knowledge of experimental Atomic-Molecular-Optical (AMO) Physics and expertise in the development and applications of neutral-atom quantum sensors. An ideal candidate has a strong background in quantum noise-limited measurements for atomic magnetometry, Rydberg-atom electrometry, or similar atom-based sensing techniques, and complex optical systems.

The activity will be hands-on and span from the development of state-of-art, optically pumped magnetometers to application-specific experiments and demonstrations. You will be part of a collaborative team of applied physicists and engineers working across SRI on leading-edge R&D projects within the quantum sensing space. You will perform proof-of-concept experiments within AMO laboratories, detailed numerical modeling and analysis, and field testing of fully-integrated sensing prototypes.

Typical responsibilities would include:

• Instrumentation of laboratory experiment and ability to execute proof-of-concept, precision measurements
• Support design and implementation of custom optical assemblies for compact sensor designs
• Detailed electromagnetic simulation and analysis
• Support sensor system design and integration (mechanical, firmware, software)
• Sensor and system troubleshooting for operation in non-laboratory environments
• Algorithm development and implementation
• Field testing and measurement; travel may be required to support field testing
• Interface with leading academic partners

• PhD in Applied Physics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, with post-degree experience a plus
• U.S. Citizenship required. Ability to transfer/obtain/maintain a U.S. government security clearance required.

Desired skills and experience:

• Experience in optically pumped magnetometry or Rydberg-atom systems
• Advanced optical systems and/or coherent optical systems
• Strong numerical and analytical modeling skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, COMSOL)
• Solid intuition with electromagnetics; signal processing expertise is a benefit.
• Precision measurements
• Atom-photon interactions
• Physics of atom-based vapor and vacuum cells

Intangibles:

• Strong organizational skills
• Detail-oriented|
• Strong written and verbal communications skills
• Able to work in a team environment
• Self-motivated
• Results-oriented approach
• Interest in multiple technical areas

The salary range is: $98,631-$146,713. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to

SRI International, an over 75-year strong pioneering research institute, has a rich history supporting government and industry. Our innovations have created new industries, billions of dollars in market value and lasting benefits to society. SRI is organized around broad disciplines and capabilities, with research and development divisions and labs to groups who excel at identifying new opportunities, developing products and creating custom solutions. Our organization is driven by impact - delivering unique solutions for the world's important challenges and transforming ideas into reality for clients and partners.

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