What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Research Associate (Ge-STAR) position at South Dakota Board of Regents?
Working Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate (Ge-STAR)
Posting Number
NFE03058P
Department
USD-Physics
Physical Location of Position (City)
Vermillion
Posting Text
The Department of Physics at the University of South Dakota is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Ge-STAR (Germanium-Based Science and Technology and Advanced Research) project. This position is funded by the NSF EPSCoR RII E-RISE program and focuses on the end-to-end development of high-purity germanium (HPGe) technology. The successful candidate will contribute to a multi-disciplinary team focused on HPGe crystal growth, detector fabrication, and applications spanning from fundamental physics to emerging quantum technologies.
Key Research Areas
The selected candidate will lead and support research activities in:
- Detector Development: Fabricating and characterizing HPGe detectors for low-mass dark matter searches and medical imaging applications.
- Crystal Growth: Advancing high-purity germanium crystal growth and zone-refining techniques.
- Quantum Technology: Developing emerging platforms, specifically germanium hole-spin qubits and next-generation quantum sensors.
- AI Integration: Collaborating with AI experts to integrate machine learning and autonomous agents into the crystal growth and device development workflow.
Required Qualifications
- A Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
- Strong background in experimental condensed matter physics, nuclear/particle physics, or cryogenic measurements.
- Experience with semiconductor device fabrication or crystal growth is highly desirable.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to mentor graduate and undergraduate students within the Ge-STAR consortium.
Appointment Details
- Duration: The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for two additional years (up to three years total) based on performance and fund availability.
- Location: Vermillion, South Dakota.
- Start Date: Negotiable, but an early start is preferred to align with the summer research cycle.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit a CV, a brief statement of research interests, and the contact information for three references.
Posting Date
05/11/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Consideration Date
05/25/2026
Advertised Salary
Duration of the Term
12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent
100
Work Hours
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type
Regular
Faculty Status
No
Scope of Search
External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires
Travel, Overnight stays, Valid Drivers License
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
USD is committed to fostering a dynamic and welcoming working and learning environment for all. USD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ideological political or sectarian opinions or perspectives, or race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. USD is committed to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse.