Senior Scientist-SNSPDs (Hybrid)

Xanadu; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology company in photonics is seeking a specialist to develop high-performance Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors (SNSPDs). The role emphasizes expertise in optics, cryogenics, and collaborative engineering solutions. Ideal candidates hold a PhD and have a track record in SNSPD design and testing. The position promotes an inclusive culture with reasonable accommodations for all applicants.

Benefits

Inclusive workplace

Equitable work culture

Reasonable accommodations for disabilities

Qualifications

• 2+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience.
• Proven track record in designing and characterizing SNSPDs.
• Experience with high-bandwidth RF readout electronics.

Responsibilities

• Developing high-efficiency SNSPDs from concept to deployment.
• Operating and maintaining cryogenic systems independently.
• Collaborating with engineers for process integration.

Skills

Optics and photonics

Cryogenics

Design and characterization of SNSPDs

Collaboration across disciplines

Detailed-oriented

Education

PhD in Physics or Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Cryostats

RF electronics

CAD software (e.g., Solidworks)

Simulation software (e.g., COMSOL)

Job description

Your role and responsibilities:

In this role, you will contribute your expertise in optics and photonics, cryogenics, to advance the performance of our Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors (SNSPDs). As a member of the Low Temperature Devices Team, your primary responsibility will be the development of record-breaking single photon detectors with ultrahigh system detection efficiency, short reset time and compact deployment.

With your deep technical expertise and experience in SNSPD system development, you will play a critical role in designing and enhancing the performance and scalability of our SNSPD platform. This role requires significant experience with SNSPDs (both in design and characterization), cryogenic systems, and photonic hardware, as well as the ability to work effectively across disciplines in a fast-paced environment.

You will design, assemble, and evaluate SNSPDs. You will take full ownership of their development, from concept through validation and deployment within large-scale detector arrays.

Responsibilities include:

• Challenge the state-of-the-art in key SNSPD performance metrics relevant to Xanadu’s Architecture
• Independently operate cryogenic systems (e.g. He-4 evaporator based, dilution refrigerators), including cooldowns, troubleshooting, and maintenance
• Collaborate with internal and external process integration engineers, packaging engineers and technicians, including at Xanadu’s foundry partners
• Development of novel high-bandwidth, low latency RF electronics readout systems
• Perform cryostat-based iterative testing to validate coupling performance, repeatability and stability

Required qualifications and experience:

• PhD in Physics, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field, with at least 2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience
• Proven track record designing, improving and characterizing SNSPDs
• Experience with high-bandwidth RF readout electronics
• Extensive hands-on experience operating cryostats, including cooldowns, troubleshooting, and maintenance
• Self-motivated, comfortable working both independently and collaboratively with people of all disciplines on complex projects in a fast-paced environment
• Detail-oriented with positive attitude towards work
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills

Preferred knowledge and experience:

• Experience writing Python code
• Experience operating dilution refrigerators (DRs) and adiabatic demagnetization refrigerators (ADRs)
• CAD and simulation experience for thermal/mechanical modeling (e.g., Solidworks, COMSOL)
• Experience with fibreoptical coupling to superconducting devices
• Familiarity with analog test equipment (e.g., VNA, SMU)
• Experience with statistical process control and quality management system reporting methods

Xanadu is committed to building an inclusive, safe, and equitable culture and fostering an environment where our employees feel included, valued, and heard. We are committed to meeting the needs of all individuals and support a barrier-free workplace.

Xanadu is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities. If you require accommodations at any point during the recruitment process, please contact us.