Research Associate, Quantum Division

About the Role:

Under general direction and in consultation with more experienced scientists, the Research Associate, Quantum Division conducts research related to the overall mission of the Laboratory. Research may be within any scientific or technology development activity of the appointee’s Division. The selected candidate will take a leadership role in the MAGIS-100 experiment, contributing to the transition to full experimental operations and establishing a research program in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) quantum science and dark matter detection. The appointee will also participate in other Fermilab quantum detector R&D programs, including work with superconducting qubits, microwave kinetic inductance detectors (MKIDs), and superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs).

Appointment is for a specific term and may be extended as appropriate.

What You'll Bring:

• Experimental AMO or quantum-sensing expertise: Experience operating, troubleshooting, and analyzing complex laboratory experiments involving cold atoms, lasers, optics, or related systems

• Independent experimental problem solving: Ability to design measurements, identify systematics, and turn open-ended scientific questions into actionable experimental or analysis plans.

• Scientific communication: Strong written and oral communication skills, demonstrated through publications, presentations, documentation, or collaboration work.

• Demonstrated potential to make meaningful contributions to the laboratory that support future consideration for appointment as an Associate Scientist.

Additional Skills That Will Set You Apart:

• Laser cooling or atom interferometry experience: Familiarity with laser-cooled atoms, optical clocks, single-photon atom optics, atom interferometry, or frequency-stabilized lasers.

• Scientific computing: Experience with Python, C++, Julia, UNIX/Linux, bash, git, data analysis, or reproducible scientific software workflows.

• Simulation and statistical analysis: Experience developing simulations, systematics models, signal-inference tools, or analysis pipelines for complex experiments.

Core Responsibilities:

• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Abides by and is responsible for performing all duties in accordance with all environmental, health and safety regulations and practices pertinent to this position.

Essential Competencies and Attributes for Success:

• Completion of PhD or are expected to complete within the current calendar year.

Work Arrangement:

• 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 Account

• Paid time-off

• Life insurance

• Short and Long-term disability insurance

• Retirement benefits

• Onsite day care

Application Materials Required:

Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/32252

• Cover letter

• Curriculum Vitae

• Research statement

• Publication list

• Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site )

Further Information:

Dylan Temples (dtemples@fnal.gov)

PO Box 500

Batavia, IL 60510