Quantum AMO Research Assistant - Cold-Atom Lab

Caltech; Pasadena, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Caltech's Darkwah-Oppong Lab in the Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy seeks a Research Assistant for an experimental AMO physics lab focused on quantum science with neutral atoms. You will help build and operate an ultra-high-vacuum apparatus, including laser systems, imaging, and data-acquisition software to prepare and measure atomic quantum states.

This hands-on, full-cycle role prepares for a PhD in experimental quantum physics, working with faculty, postdocs, and students on

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, or closely related field.
• Coursework in AMO physics and/or quantum mechanics.
• Demonstrated research experience in experimental and/or computational physics.
• Programming in Python for simulation, data analysis, and instrument control.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with careful record-keeping.
• Ability to work independently and in a team; travel for conferences as needed.

Responsibilities

• Design, assemble, align, and maintain optical and laser systems used for cooling, trapping, and imaging.
• Operate and improve a high-vacuum neutral-atom apparatus and associated subsystems.
• Develop, test, and document experimental control software and data-acquisition routines (Python).
• Perform numerical simulations and modeling of atomic/many-body systems to aid experimental design.
• Analyze data, visualize results, and extract physical quantities; assess system performance.
• Contribute to hardware fabrication such as electronics, mechanical mounts, and PCBs.
• Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks and contribute to manuscripts and documentation.
• Follow laser-safety protocols and maintain laboratory safety standards.
• Occasionally lift equipment (up to 25+ lbs) and travel for conferences.

Skills

Python programming

Experimental physics

Data analysis

Record keeping

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Physics or related field

Tools

FPGA-based control hardware

Job description

Caltech's Darkwah-Oppong Lab in the Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy seeks a Research Assistant for an experimental AMO physics lab focused on quantum science with neutral atoms. You will help build and operate an ultra-high-vacuum apparatus, including laser systems, imaging, and data-acquisition software to prepare and measure atomic quantum states.

This hands-on, full-cycle role prepares for a PhD in experimental quantum physics, working with faculty, postdocs, and students on