Staff Scientist

University of Chicago; Illinois; On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago, in partnership with Argonne National Laboratory, seeks a Staff Scientist to lead superconducting quantum device research in the Han Lab. The role emphasizes the design, fabrication, and testing of quantum circuits and nanofabricated components.

You will work closely with faculty to plan, oversee, and execute projects, supervise students, and contribute to publications and grant proposals focused on quantum nanofabrication and network experiments.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field with track record in quantum devices or nanofabrication.
• Experience in designing and fabricating superconducting qubits and quantum circuits.
• Background in low-temperature physics and quantum device experiments.

Responsibilities

• Facilitates advanced technical and scientific research on nanoscale systems.
• Designs and fabricates superconducting qubits and quantum circuits.
• Develops single-electron qubits and conducts low-temperature experiments.
• supervises students and disseminates results via publications and grants.

Skills

Python

Matlab

Data analysis

Communication

Education

PhD in physics, materials science, quantum engineering, or related field

Tools

Dropbox

Box

CAD software

Calendaring

Job description

Department PME Argonne

About the Department The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME; https://pme.uchicago.edu/) was established in May 2019 and evolved from the Institute for Molecular Engineering, which was founded in 2011. The PME integrates science and engineering to address global challenges from the molecular level up. The PME’s rigorous academic and research programs are made possible through the University of Chicago’s unique partnership with Argonne National Laboratory. The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering is the first new school at the University of Chicago in three decades and the first school in the nation dedicated to molecular engineering. In the next phase of growth as a School, the PME will continue to expand its team of world-class faculty researchers and empower students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate with faculty in cutting-edge facilities. The PME aims to bring solutions for urgent societal problems to the forefront, while training the next generation of scientific leaders and entrepreneurs.

Job Summary

The PME is seeking a Staff Scientist to lead research on superconducting quantum devices and quantum networks in the Han Lab. The Han Lab specializes in experimental studies of quantum devices, with a research focus on the fundamental science behind the development of micro- and nanoscale systems with the goal of achieving unprecedented control in the fabrication, integration, and manipulation of quantum phenomena in photons and solid-state materials. The Staff Scientist will support research that is relevant to applications involving nanofabrication and the fundamental science of quantum devices and systems. Typical projects include:

• (i) design and fabrication of superconducting qubits and quantum circuits
• (ii) development of single-electron qubits
• (iii) low-temperature and quantum network experiments

The ideal candidate will closely partner with the faculty to plan, oversee, and execute all aspects of the project, including identifying the need for innovation and developing or incorporating advances in research concepts to help disseminate the results of research projects. In addition, the role will include student supervision.

Responsibilities

• Facilitates and promotes advanced technical/scientific research projects, including research on nanoscale systems.
• Recognizes the need for innovation and develops or incorporates advances in research concepts to help disseminate results.
• Collaborates and coordinates with other researchers in the group in joint research efforts.
• Builds relationships crucial to the success of the lab, PME, and UChicago.
• Manages complex data sets for research.
• Trains new laboratory personnel.
• Collaborates closely with the research team to disseminate research methods to support or advance their research.
• Collaborates on the development of new research projects.
• Reviews laboratory protocols and training on new techniques.
• Manage complex data sets for research.
• Leads the contributions to scientific writing and publications, including protocols and grants.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.
• Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Certifications: ---

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Doctoral degree with an established track record in physics, materials science, quantum engineering, or related field.
• Experience: Postdoc experience, a minimum of three years of significant work experience after the doctorate.
• Possess experience in nanofabrication in a clean room.
• Background in experimental low-temperature physics and superconducting devices.

Technical Skills or Knowledge

• Strong computer programming and instrumentation interface skills in Python and Matlab programming languages.
• Strong computer skills, including calendaring, document management, such as Dropbox and Box, etc., word processing, database management, and spreadsheet skills.
• Knowledge of simulation and computer-aided design software.
• Familiarity with manuscript drafting, editing and review.
• Familiarity with report writing/submission.

Preferred Competencies Demonstrated

• Problem-solving, organization and coordination skills.
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent time management skills and handle multiple, concurrent tasks within deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Prioritize urgent tasks while ensuring established deadlines are met.
• Flexible and adaptable to changes in workflow and procedures.

Job Family Research Role Impact Individual Contributor Scheduled Weekly Hours 40 Drug Test Required No Health Screen Required No Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required No Pay Rate Type Salary FLSA Status Exempt Pay Range $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible Yes The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

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 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case‑by‑case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position. The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. The University of Chicago is an urban research university that has driven new ways of thinking since 1890. Our commitment to free and open inquiry draws inspired scholars to our global campuses, where ideas are born that challenge and change the world. We empower individuals to challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of original ideas. Students in the College develop critical, analytic, and writing skills in our rigorous, interdisciplinary core curriculum. Through graduate programs, students test their ideas with UChicago scholars, and become the next generation of leaders in academia, industry, nonprofits, and government.

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