What are the responsibilities and job description for the Experimental Quantum Physicist position at Qunett?
About Qunett
Qunett is developing the foundational hardware layer for quantum networking. Our mission is to build scalable, field-deployable quantum networks through solid-state quantum memory and networking technologies designed to operate beyond the laboratory and integrate directly with real-world infrastructure. At Qunett, physicists and engineers work hands-on with diamond-based quantum devices, photonics, cryogenic systems, and control electronics to translate fundamental quantum capabilities into practical networked hardware. This is a ground-floor opportunity to help shape how quantum systems communicate, scale, and drive the next generation of secure communication, distributed sensing, and quantum computing. As an early-stage company, Qunett seeks physicists and engineers who bring technical range, adaptability, and readiness to contribute across disciplines as the technology and team evolve.
Work Location
This is a full-time, onsite position based in Boston, MA.
About the role
Qunett is hiring an Experimental Quantum Physicist to advance the frontier of solid-state quantum memory based on group-IV color centers in diamond — with a focus on the electron-nuclear spin register and spin-optical interface that make these systems uniquely suited for real-world quantum networking. You will take ownership of day-to-day operation of a memory testbed and lead pulsed optical and microwave/RF experiments targeting spin-photon entanglement, optical spin initialization and readout, and coherent spin manipulation. The experimental scope spans foundational characterization through networking-relevant implementation. The successful candidate will join the core experimental team building Qunett's diamond quantum memory products for quantum networking.
Required qualifications
- PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field
- Hands-on experimental experience with one or more quantum platforms, including solid-state spin defects, semiconductor spin systems, rare-earth ion ensembles or single ions, trapped ions, neutral atoms, or related systems
- Experience constructing and operating laser-based experimental systems, including optical alignment, laser modulation or stabilization, and single-photon detection
- Working knowledge of electronic and RF/microwave instrumentation in a lab setting (e.g., signal generators, AWGs, photon time taggers, lock-in amplifiers)
- Python or equivalent scripting for instrument control, data acquisition, or experimental analysis
Preferred qualifications
- Experience with optically active spin defects in solids (diamond color centers — NV, SiV, SnV; SiC defects; hBN emitters; rare-earth ions; or related systems)
- Background in laser spectroscopy and quantum optical characterization, including PLE, linewidth and spectral diffusion measurements, g(2) correlations, optical coherence, and excited-state lifetime
- Experimental experience with pulsed spin resonance: Rabi oscillations, Ramsey interferometry, T1, T2*, CPMG dynamical decoupling, or equivalent coherent control techniques
- Experience with cryogenic platforms, particularly sub-Kelvin systems
- Familiarity with nanophotonic device characterization, waveguide-coupled emitters, or confocal microscopy
- Experience with coherent quantum optical experiments such as two-photon Hong-Ou-Mandel interference or photon-mediated remote entanglement generation
Benefits
- Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Equity participation through stock options for all new hires
- Flexible time off: unlimited PTO, sick leave, and 11 paid holidays
- Employee support benefits including EAP, caregiver support, healthcare advocacy, and more
Qunett Website: https://www.qunett.com/