Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors

ORAU; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institute is looking for a postdoctoral researcher in Pasadena, California. The role involves developing superconducting nanowire single photon detectors for applications in advanced spectroscopy and quantum optics. Candidates should hold a doctoral degree in physics or electrical engineering, with experience in detector characterization, nanofabrication, and readout electronics. The position offers the chance to advance the technology's performance in various critical metrics, working under the guidance of a lead advisor.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in physics, electrical engineering, or related field.
• Experience in superconducting detector characterization and testing.
• Experience in device nanofabrication.
• Experience in development of detector readout electronics.
• Experience in design and implementation of cryogenic detector instruments.

Responsibilities

• Develop SNSPD technology for exoplanet transit spectroscopy.
• Advance performance metrics of photon detectors.
• Improvements in efficiency at mid-infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths.

Skills

Superconducting detector characterization and testing

Device nanofabrication

Development of detector readout electronics

Design and implementation of cryogenic detector instruments

Education

Doctoral degree in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field

Job description

Responsibilities

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to develop superconducting nanowire single photon detectors (SNSPD) technology for applications in exoplanet transit spectroscopy, deep‑space laser communication, and quantum optics. Our research group is focused on advancing the performance of these detectors in every metric, including efficiency at mid‑infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths, active area, timing resolution, maximum count rate, dark count rate, and pixel count.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas:
• Superconducting detector characterization and testing.
• Device nanofabrication.
• Development of detector readout electronics.
• Design and implementation of cryogenic detector instruments in field applications.
• Eligible to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, eligible for an Exchange Visitor J‑1 visa, or an LPR, asylee, or refugee with a valid EAD and pending I‑485/I‑589.

Location

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California.

Advisor

Matt Shaw – [e-mail]