Quantum Photonics Research Scientist

Air Force Research Laboratory; City of Syracuse (NY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, NY is seeking a mid-level Research Physicist or Electrical Engineer (DR-02, GS-12/13 or equivalent) to join the Quantum Photonics Team and bridge theoretical device design with physical realization.

The role focuses on end-to-end photonic design, PIC layout, process collaboration with foundries, advanced optical testbeds, and quantum measurement work, with opportunities to develop automated data acquisition and iterative improvements.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain Top Secret clearance.
• Males must be registered for Selective Service.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end design, simulation, and optimization of photonic components and circuits.
• Develop and verify mask layouts for PICs to meet design rules and manufacturing constraints.
• Collaborate with semiconductor foundries and cleanrooms on process development and PDK creation.
• Design, assemble, and align optical testbeds for device characterization.
• Conduct experimental testing of classical and quantum performance metrics.
• Develop automated data acquisition scripts and analyze experimental data.

Skills

Photonic simulation

Python programming

C programming

Data analysis

Problem solving

Education

ABET-accredited S&E degree

Ph.D. in Physics/Applied Physics/Nanotechnology/Electrical Engineering

Tools

Ansys Lumerical

Tidy3D

KLayout

CAD

3D printing

Job description

Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, NY is seeking a mid-level Research Physicist or Electrical Engineer (DR-02, GS-12/13 or equivalent) to join the Quantum Photonics Team and bridge theoretical device design with physical realization.

The role focuses on end-to-end photonic design, PIC layout, process collaboration with foundries, advanced optical testbeds, and quantum measurement work, with opportunities to develop automated data acquisition and iterative improvements.