Postdoctoral Appointee, Quantum Sensing, Onsite

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:

• Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
• Extraordinary co-workers
• Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
• Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements for many positions include 9/80 (work 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday off) and 4/10 (work 4 ten-hour days each week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
• Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov

We are seeking outstanding Postdoctoral Appointees to support research projects developing advanced atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics-based quantum sensors, neutral atom quantum computing systems, and laser spectroscopy based on optical frequency combs. Current sensing projects include development of electric field sensors based on Rydberg atoms and spin polarized neutrons, optically pumped magnetometers for magnetoencephalography and remote sensing applications, compact/low power/fieldable atomic clocks, inertial sensing with atom interferometers, and optical comb development for remote spectroscopy trace gases.

• A PhD in atomic, molecular, optical, or neutron physics or electrical engineering conferred within five (5) years prior to employment.
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • atomic physics
  • atomic clocks
  • Rydberg electrometry
  • optically pumped magnetometry
  • magnetoencephalography
  • hyperpolarized noble gas
  • polarized neutrons
  • laser frequency combs
  • diode laser systems
  • laser optics
  • optical alignment
  • mechanical design
  • computer control of experiments and electronic equipment
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Q-level security clearance

• Track record of successful research and development in AMO-relevant fields
• Experience with one or more of the following:
  • hands-on time with laser alignment and optical systems
  • data acquisition, signal processing, and data analysis
  • Matlab, Mathematica, Python
  • Solidworks, Zemax, Comsol
  • Outstanding academic/research record
  • Strong oral, written, interpersonal and organization skills, including the ability to collaborate well in a diverse team environment and develop positive relationships
    

The Atomic-Optical Sensing and Electrochemistry Engineering Department leverages a diverse capability set to provide science and technology products to enhance Sandia's national security missions. The department includes a broad set of expertise including atomic physics, micro-optics, x-ray imaging, and electrochemistry/electrodeposition. As part of the Microsystems Engineering Sciences and Applications (MESA) facility, we provide solutions including atomic physics-based sensors; optically pumped magnetometry, electrometry, neutron imaging for E-fields, atom and ion trapping devices and systems; x-ray phase contrast imaging; critical electrochemical materials processes; and unparalleled micro-machined devices. In addition to work for internal Sandia organizations, we have an established record of successful engagement with external customers.

This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of seven (7) calendar days, including the ‘posting date’. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.

Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.

Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.

If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.

If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sandia National Laboratories, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.