Assistant Research Scientist

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory; Princeton (NJ); On-site; USD 75,000 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) in Princeton, NJ, seeks a candidate to support the Quantum Diamond Laboratory. The role involves growing high-purity single-crystal diamond via CVD, fabricating quantum and photonic devices, and collaborating with teams across materials science, quantum physics, and engineering.

Responsibilities include preparing publications, maintaining equipment, and upholding safety procedures in a rigorous research environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a physical, chemical, or materials science field.
• Ability to follow procedures, document outcomes, and communicate results in writing.

Responsibilities

• Assist in executing experiments for growth of high-purity single-crystal diamond via CVD, with controlled defect incorporation and dopants for quantum applications.
• Fabricate diamond-based quantum and photonic devices, including surface processing, patterning, and integration of microwave/optical structures.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across materials science, quantum physics, and device engineering.
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and follow safety protocols to ensure a safe research environment.

Skills

CVD growth

Nanofabrication

Quantum devices

Photonic structures

Microelectronic devices

Raman spectroscopy

Photoluminescence

SEM

AFM

EPR

TEM

XPS

XRD

Plasma physics

Quantum information

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent training in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Tools

Cleanroom protocols

Lab safety practices

Job description

Overview

The successful candidate will support laboratory research operations within the Quantum Diamond Laboratory, using state-of-the-arts plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition reactors to grow quantum and microelectronics grade diamond. They will work within a team of scientists at PPPL and collaborators at Princeton University to conduct plasma, surface, and materials-science experiments and synthesize new diamond materials and devices with potential commercial applications.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Responsibilities

Core Duties:

• Assist in the execution of experiments for the growth of high-purity single-crystal diamond using chemical vapor deposition (CVD), with precise control of defect incorporation, electronic dopants, and bespoke defects for quantum applications (e.g., NV and related color centers).
• Conduct supervised and unsupervised fabrication processes for diamond-based quantum and photonic devices, including surface processing, patterning, and integration of microwave/optical structures.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams across materials science, quantum physics, and device engineering.
• Assist in preparation and publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and contribute to a safe and efficient research environment.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent training and/or experience in a technical area, including Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Availability for standard daytime working hours;
• Demonstrated ability to follow operating procedures, execute experimental protocols, document experimental outcomes and communicate results in written and non-written formats.
• Knowledge of general laboratory safety concepts and ability to follow safety protocols.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Highly desirable to have one or more of the following:

• Demonstrated expertise in CVD growth of single-crystal diamond or related materials deposition and epitaxy experiments.
• Experience in nanofabrication, developing quantum, photonic structures and/or microelectronic devices.
• Hands‑on experience with advanced characterization techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL), SEM, AFM, EPR, TEM, XPS, XRD and other relevant tools.
• Familiarity with Plasma Physics, Quantum devices, or Quantum information platforms based on solid‑state defects is advantageous.
• Developed scientific communication skills, including report writing and exposure to data analysis techniques.
• Ability to work effectively in team environments and conduct unsupervised experimental activities.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to:

  • Stand for long periods during experiments

  • Work in cleanroom or controlled environments

• Wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment):

  • Safety glasses

  • Gloves

• Lifting requirements:

  • Typically 10-25 lbs routinely

  • Sometimes up to 40-50 lbs with assistance

Working Conditions:

• Availability for standard daytime working hours.
• The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro‑rated accordingly.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full‑time position; salaries for part‑time positions are pro‑rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Standard Weekly Hours

40.00

Eligible for Overtime

No

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Probationary Period

180 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Valid Driver's License Required

No

Salary Range

$74,700 to $119,300