Postdoctoral Research Associate - Integrated Photonics

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision plans

Flexible work hours

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for the Quantum Sensing and Computing Group to support research on quantum integrated photonics. This role includes presenting research concepts to national audiences and writing peer-reviewed papers.

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in physics or a related field and possess experience in quantum optics. The position offers competitive pay, flexible hours, and various benefits, including relocation assistance.

Qualifications

• PhD completed within the last 5 years.
• Experience in design, fabrication, testing of integrated photonic devices.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Participate in research on quantum integrated photonics.
• Present research concepts and results to national audiences.
• Write peer-reviewed papers and technical reports.

Skills

Quantum optics

Quantum information science

Excellent communication skills

Collaborative team work

Education

PhD in physics or related field

Job description

Overview

ORNL, a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science national laboratory, seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate for the Quantum Sensing and Computing Group in the Computational Science and Engineering Division (CSED), Computing and Computational Sciences Directorate (CCSD). The role supports research on quantum integrated photonics and related sensing solutions.

Responsibilities

• Participate in new and ongoing research on quantum integrated photonics.
• Formulate novel quantum sensing solutions to problems of national interest and support research and development for practical implementation.
• Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national audiences at all levels.
• Write peer‑reviewed papers and technical reports for internal and external release, and represent the organization by giving technical presentations in large public forums.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service; promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace.

Basic Qualifications

• A PhD in physics or a related field completed within the last 5 years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in quantum optics and quantum information science; particularly in the design, fabrication, and testing of integrated photonic devices and circuits.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self‑starter capable of working independently and creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast‑paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements

• Export control: No clearance; candidates must be qualified for access to technology subject to export control requirements without an export control license.

Employment Details

Applicants must not have earned a PhD more than five years prior to the application date and must complete all degree requirements before starting. The appointment length is up to 24 months with potential for extension, subject to performance and availability of funding.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
• Flexible work hours, on‑site fitness and cafeteria facilities.
• Life insurance, disability benefits, generous vacation and holidays, parental leave, and educational assistance.
• Relocation assistance and employee discounts.

Equal Opportunity Statement

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.