Associate Scientist, Group Leader (SQMS – Materials)

Fermilab’s Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center is seeking candidates for an Associate Scientist and group leader position to lead a group of experimental researchers in the area of superconducting qubits design and fabrication. The SQMS Center was established by the National Quantum Initiative Act as a hub in a new cooperative ecosystem built from national labs, universities, and leading companies. The mission of the SQMS Center is to build revolutionary new quantum science platforms that exploit superconducting radio frequency cavities and superconducting qubits for quantum information science (QIS) in the area of quantum computing, quantum sensing and quantum physics experiments.

The successful candidate is expected to lead an experimental group and work closely with quantum computing researchers at Fermilab and in the larger community associated with the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems (SQMS) Center. Areas of immediate interest include research on qubit technologies based on superconducting circuits and cavities, material analysis, development of novel architectures and/or materials for qubits, development of novel qubit fabrication facilities and superconducting films deposition systems.

As a member of the Center, the position will involve working with a multidisciplinary team, including others who contribute expertise in quantum materials and devices. The research will take advantage of world-class facilities and testbeds available both at Fermilab and with national and international Center partner institutions. It will build on platforms enabled by world leading coherence times of superconducting radiofrequency cavities to improve discovery potential.

We respect, understand, and value individual differences that embody the principles of diversity and abide by all environment, safety, and health regulations. We believe teams are the most successful when everyone may bring their whole selves to work. You would be joining a team with a deeply held commitment to developing and promoting an inclusive work environment.

The appointment is for an initial term of three years extendable by an additional three years prior to evaluation for a permanent position.

You will

• Lead the procurement and design of a superconducting qubits nanofab facility at Fermilab.
• Participate in the design, fabrication and testing of superconducting quantum bits.
• Directs the work of other employees as assigned.
• Perform experiments, analyse data and apply results to progress assigned project; give seminar and conference presentations related to area of specialty or assignment.
• Serve on Laboratory and professional committees as appropriate.
• Abide by and be responsible for performing all activities in accordance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations and practices.

We are looking for

• PhD in physics, or relevant discipline.
• Experience in quantum device and qubit fabrication is preferred. Including experience in:
  – Photolithographic stepper
  – Electron beam lithography
  – Double-angle evaporation of Josephson junctions
  – PVD of metals (Nb, Al, …)
  – Reactive ion etching
  – Wet bench procedures
  – Photoresist lift-off and development
• Experience in quantum devices testing is required.
• Experience in qubit design is required.
• Experience in lithographic mask design is required.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills, including the preparation and delivery of papers, reports, and presentations.
• The potential to contribute to Fermilab and broader scientific community in a way that will subsequently lead to an appointment as a permanent member of the Fermilab scientific staff.

Application instructions

Interested candidates should submit via Academic Jobs Online:

• Cover letter.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Research statement.
• Publication list.
• Three reference letters (to be submitted by the reference writers at the AJO site).

https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/17576. 

For general information about this position, please contact Anna Grassellino annag@fnal.gov.

Fermilab is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply.