Quantum Physicist

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); Gaithersburg (MD); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) seeks a physicist to develop and apply scanning tunneling methods to fabricate atom-scale solid-state quantum devices and to conduct low-temperature measurements. The successful candidate will optimize protocols and device performance for quantum computing and simulation.

The role involves researching, interpreting literature, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team to advance quantum information science goals, using specialized

Qualifications

• Degree in physics or related field with at least 24 physics hours.
• One year of specialized experience in STM metrology or low-temperature measurements (GS-9 equivalent) or Master's degree or equivalent.
• Combination of graduate education and specialized experience acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply scanning tunneling microscopy methods to fabricate atom-scale quantum devices.
• Conduct low-temperature electrical and physical measurements to evaluate device performance.
• Plan and execute complex experiments with limited supervision in a multidisciplinary team.

Skills

STM metrology

Low-temperature measurements

Quantum information

Education

Physics degree

Tools

Cryogenic equipment

Job description

Summary

NIST's Atom Scale Device Group seeks a Physicist to develop and apply scanning tunneling methods to fabricate atom-scale solid-state quantum devices, conduct low-temperature measurements, and optimize protocols and device performance for quantum computing and simulation. This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Duties

The mission of NIST's Nanoscale Device Characterization Division is to develop and advance the measurement and knowledge infrastructure to characterize nano- and atom-scale engineered materials and solid-state devices for innovation in information processing, sensing, and future quantum technologies. If hired as a Quantum Physicist in their Atom Scale Device Group, you will: Develop and apply scanning tunneling microscopy methods to fabricate atom-scale solid-state quantum devices for evaluation in quantum computing and simulation. Conduct low-temperature electrical and physical measurements to evaluate and characterize the behavior and performance of fabricated quantum devices. Design and refine specialized tools, methodologies, and experimental protocols to optimize device fabrication yield, reproducibility, and operational performance. Research, interpret, and apply scientific literature precedents and guiding physical principles to analyze device data and resolve complex technical obstacles. Plan and execute complex experimental tasks with limited supervision, collaborating within a multidisciplinary team to advance major goals in quantum information science.

Qualifications

Basic Requirements: Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics; OR Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education. In either 1 or 2 above, the courses must have included: a fundamental course in general physics, and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism heat light mechanics modern physics sound In addition to the basic requirements, you must also meet one of the following requirements: 1. One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST). Specialized experience is defined as: Experience with scanning tunneling metrology Experience with low-temperature measurements of quantum materials OR 2. Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR 3. A combination of graduate education and specialized experience. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration