Postdoc: Quantum Gases, Matter-Wave Interferometry, and Cold Atom Systems

Jet Propulsion Laboratory; United States; On-site; USD 75,438 - 92,202; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision plans

Flexible schedule

Childcare assistance

Parental leave

Job summary

Jet Propulsion Laboratory is seeking postdoctoral researchers with a Ph.D. in related fields to focus on quantum gases and advanced matter-wave interferometry techniques. Located in Pasadena, California, the position emphasizes experimentation and collaboration across teams to drive scientific developments.

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans. Candidates should have a solid academic and practical experience in the field, particularly in ultra-cold atomic research and data analysis.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Quantum Science, or Atomic Physics.
• Experience with experimental ultra-cold atoms or atom interferometry.
• Demonstrated research productivity in peer-reviewed publications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental and theoretical research supporting ODT systems.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across JPL.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Skills

Experimental experience with ultra-cold atoms

Strong background in quantum optics

Data analysis skills

Strong written and oral communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Physics or related field

Tools

Advanced vacuum systems

Laser and optical systems

Job description

JPL invites postdoctoral researchers with a Ph.D. in physics or related field to focus on quantum gases, matter‑wave interferometry, and cold atom technologies.

Location: Pasadena, California (on the JPL Caltech campus)

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental and theoretical research supporting Optical Dipole Trap (ODT) systems.
• Model and analyze data from ground and flight experiments associated with the Cold Atom Lab (CAL).
• Support Engineering Model Test Bed and Ground Testbed activities.
• Contribute to the design and development of laser optical systems for cold atom technologies.
• Develop and investigate advanced matter‑wave interferometry techniques.
• Conduct research involving ultra‑cold quantum gases and Bose‑Einstein condensates.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across JPL and partner institutions.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Quantum Science, Atomic Physics, or a related field.
• Experimental experience with ultra‑cold atoms, Bose‑Einstein condensates, or atom interferometry.
• Experience with advanced vacuum, laser, optical, and control systems.
• Strong background in quantum optics, atomic physics, or precision measurement techniques.
• Demonstrated research productivity through peer‑reviewed publications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with quantum gases in microgravity environments.
• Familiarity with cavity atom interferometry or quantum sensing applications.
• Experience developing experimental hardware and laboratory instrumentation.
• Strong computational, modeling, and data analysis skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Postdoctoral Terms

Positions are awarded for a minimum of one year, renewable up to a maximum of three years.

Benefits

The position includes health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans; paid time off; learning opportunities; rideshare; childcare assistance; flexible schedule; parental leave; and other benefits.

Salary

Annual range: $83,820 – $83,820 (Pasadena, California)

EEO Statement

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. EEO is the Law.