Postdoctoral Scholar in Experimental Axion Dark Matter Physics

1000scholars; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 63,000 - 94,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Postdoc benefits package

Job summary

The University of Chicago (Enrico Fermi Institute) in partnership with Fermilab invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in experimental dark matter physics focusing on axion and axion-like particle detection. The role spans ADMX and BREAD, involving low-noise instrumentation, cryogenics, and quantum-limited sensing.

The successful candidate will lead data analysis for ADMX Run 2A, contribute to detector upgrades, and help develop instrumentation for a wide-range axion search program,

Qualifications

• PhD in physics, applied physics, or closely related field, completed by appointment.
• Within seven years of PhD for duration of appointment.
• Record of research accomplishments and ability to work independently and in collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead data analysis for ADMX Run 2A and contribute to upgrades to the detector.
• Design, test and implement instrumentation upgrades for ADMX and BREAD programs.
• Develop instrumentation for BREAD-based searches in the W-band (75–110 GHz).
• Collaborate with graduate/undergraduate students, engineers, and international partners.

Skills

low-noise microwave/RF

cryogenics

quantum sensing

data analysis

instrumentation hardware

leadership

Education

PhD in physics or applied physics

Tools

Receiver chain design

Low-noise amplification

Cryogenic systems

Job description

Position Description

Joint Appointment: The University of Chicago (Enrico Fermi Institute) & Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab)

The Enrico Fermi Institute of the University of Chicago, in partnership with the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), is seeking applicants for a position as a Postdoctoral Scholar in the field of experimental dark matter physics, with an emphasis on the direct detection of axions and axion‑like particles.

The successful applicant will participate in the instrumentation development and physics data analysis of two related and complementary axion search programs: the Axion Dark Matter eXperiment (ADMX) and the Broadband Reflector Experiment for Axion Detection (BREAD). Together these efforts span the resonant‑cavity and broadband approaches to axion detection, covering a wide range of candidate axion masses and offering the successful candidate broad exposure to state‑of‑the‑art low‑noise instrumentation, cryogenics, and quantum‑limited sensing.

ADMX is a resonant‑cavity haloscope that searches for dark‑matter axions in a strong magnetic field, and is among the most sensitive experiments in its mass range. The candidate will take a leading role in the analysis of data from ADMX Run 2A, as well as in the design, testing, and implementation of upgrades to the ADMX detector aimed at extending its reach and improving its sensitivity in future runs.

BREAD is a broadband, dish‑antenna (reflector) experiment that searches for axions across a wide frequency range without the need for a tunable resonant cavity, making it particularly well suited to higher‑mass axions. The candidate will contribute to the development of instrumentation for a BREAD‑based search operating in the W‑band frequency range (approximately 75–110 GHz), including the receiver chain, low‑noise detection, and associated readout required to extend sensitivity to this regime.

We welcome candidates who wish to work across these experimental efforts. The group will work with the selected candidate to shape a research portfolio that matches their strengths and career goals.

Applications and candidates must meet the following requirements:

• A PhD in physics, applied physics, or a closely related field, completed by the time of appointment.
• To be eligible for a postdoctoral appointment, candidates must be within seven years of the award of their PhD for the duration of the appointment.
• A record of research accomplishments appropriate to career stage, and the ability to work both independently and as part of an experimental collaboration.

The ideal candidate will have experience in instrumentation and hardware, with preferred skills and experience including:

• low‑noise microwave/RF and cryogenic systems, superconducting magnets, quantum sensing, low‑noise amplification
• physics data analysis, publication, and dissemination of results.
• Willingness to lead in local hardware and software development, as well as detector testing and commissioning.
• Working closely with graduate and undergraduate students, engineers, and international collaborators across the ADMX and BREAD collaborations.

Candidates should also be prepared to travel to, or spend extended periods at, the sites of the experimental apparatus at Fermilab and collaborating institutions.

The position will start in Autumn of 2026, though there is some flexibility to accommodate other schedules. This posting will remain open until a suitable candidate has been selected. Any questions can be directed to Prof. David W. Miller (University of Chicago) [e-mail] or Dr. Andrew Sonnenschein (Fermilab) [e-mail].

Compensation and Benefits

The annual salary range for this position is $63,480–$93,640. The final salary offered will depend on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and career stage, consistent with University policy.

This position is eligible for the University of Chicago's comprehensive postdoctoral benefits package, which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off, and other benefits; details are available at the University of Chicago Office of Postdoctoral Affairs: https://intranet.uchicago.edu/human-resources/services/benefits/benefits-for-postdocs

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email [e-mail] with their request.