Metrology for Continuous Variable Quantum Computing and Networking

National Institute of Standards and Technology; Gaithersburg (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Information Technology Laboratory seeks a graduate student for a research physicist role focused on advanced quantum optical experiments. You will develop novel CV quantum devices, including squeezed light sources and detectors, and deploy them in field experiments for CV quantum networking.

You will work on high-precision phase stabilization, long-distance CV entanglement distribution, and protocols for quantum networking.

Qualifications

• Experience with lasers and related setups for quantum optics experiments.
• Three or more years of relevant experimental experience.
• Expertise in Quantum Optics, Quantum mechanics and Quantum Information Systems (QIS).
• Ability to build complex and extensive quantum optical experiments.
• Ability to develop prototypes and deployable tools used in advanced quantum field experiments.
• Strong oral and written communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop a squeezed vacuum source for continuous variable quantum networking and related homodyne detection apparatus.
• Develop source and detection characterization protocols.
• Conceptualize novel quantum optical experiments and associated studies.
• Present results at internal and external meetings and conferences.
• Publish high-quality research findings.
• Archive results, protocols, software, and documentation for the larger group.
• Collaborate with team members and share expertise.

Skills

Laser systems

Homodyne detection

TES detectors

SNSPDs

Quantum optics

Python

Matlab

Data acquisition

Experiment design

Circuit design

Independent work

Communication

Prototype development

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Job description

Metrology for Continuous Variable Quantum Computing and Networking

The Information Technology Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking qualified candidates for the position of research physicist. The position will be a graduate student performing advanced quantum optical experiments. The position requires the development of novel quantum optical devices, systems and tools that will be deployed in challenging field experiments on continuous variable (CV) quantum networking. These devices, systems and tools include sources of squeezed light, photon-number resolving detectors, homodyne detectors and optical fiber phase stabilization. Field experiments include distributing CV entanglement over long distances along with phase stabilization, high timing precision and high fidelity; tools and protocols that can be used for applications in CV quantum networking and using quantum-enhanced measurement protocols for exotic quantum states of light.

Duties

• Development of a squeezed vacuum source for continuous variable quantum networking and associated homodyne detection apparatus.
• Develop source and detection characterization protocols.
• Conceptualizing novel and useful quantum optical research ideas and their associated experiments.
• Presenting results at internal and external meetings and conferences.
• Producing high-quality publications based on research and results.
• Ensuring that results, protocols, software, and documentation have been archived or otherwise transmitted to the larger organization.
• Collaborate with team members and share expertise.

Required Skills, Expertise, and Qualifications

• Experience with lasers, related setups, homodyne detection, transition edge sensors and superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors.
• Three or more years of relevant experimental experience.
• Expertise in Quantum Optics, Quantum mechanics and Quantum Information Systems (QIS).
• Ability to build complex and extensive quantum optical experiments.
• Ability to develop prototypes and deployable tools used in advanced quantum field experiments.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and strong presentation skills.
• Programming skills in Matlab and/or Python with extensive experience in data acquisition and instrument control.
• Electrical circuit design and use of photodetectors.
• Must be able to work independently and with other researchers while under the guidance of a mentor.

Employment Terms

This opportunity is to be an associate researcher in the NIST Quantum Information Group for a term of 3 years, with options to renew and/or pursue longer term federal employment. Associate researchers are NOT Federal Employees, but they work aside NIST researchers. Relocation expenses will not be provided.

An Associate at NIST is not a federal employee but collaborates with NIST on research projects of mutual interest and does not work exclusively on NIST mission-related activities.