About the Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Senior Quantum Hardware Scientist to serve as the Key Personnel on a high-profile NIST contract focused on quantum networking metrology. This is a unique opportunity to work full-time, embedded at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland, supporting cutting-edge research in quantum communications, entanglement sources, and ultra-stable laser systems.
You will work directly with NIST’s Quantum Network Architecture and Protocols (QNAP) Group on experimental quantum hardware development.
Key Responsibilities
- Establish and develop a quantum engineering laboratory for network metrology experiments
- Design, build, and characterize polarization-entangled photon sources for entanglement swapping experiments
- Develop and stabilize miniature ultra-stable lasers at 1550 nm using NIST-designed cavities
- Perform precision measurements including two-photon interference, phase noise characterization, and coherence length evaluation
- Prepare technical documentation, schematics, experimental setups, and monthly progress reports
- Collaborate closely with NIST scientists while independently driving technical execution
Required Qualifications (Must Meet All)
- PhD in Quantum Physics (mandatory – no substitutions accepted)
- Minimum 8 years of hands-on experience conducting quantum experiments
- Minimum 8 years of experience in independent design, implementation, and testing of quantum systems
- Minimum 8 years of experience working with quantum apparatus for phase characterization and stabilization
- Minimum 8 years of experience in quantum hardware development for quantum experiments
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience with entanglement swapping, two-photon interference, or quantum networking experiments
- Prior work in a national laboratory or government research environment
- Strong publication record in quantum optics or quantum information science
- Familiarity with NIST quantum testbeds or similar research infrastructure
IT01
Pay: $256,679.38 - $400,474.10 per year
Work Location: In person
