Postdoctoral researcher
The position is ideal for early-career researchers seeking to build an independent research profile while working at the forefront of superconducting electronics and quantum-enabled metrology.
The postdoctoral associate will conduct original research focused on developing advanced scanning
superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry to study superconducting electronic
systems. Core research directions include improving SQUID sensor performance, imaging and understanding
flux trapping, and evaluating mitigation strategies in high-speed superconducting circuits.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead and shape research directions, contribute to the
design and construction of next-generation scanning SQUID instrumentation, and apply these tools to cutting-
edge superconducting devices. Our group has deep expertise in microwave metrology, nanoscale device
characterization, and superconducting circuit design, fabrication, and measurement.
This position provides strong mentorship from NIST staff scientists and is structured to support:
- Development of an independent research program
- A strong publication record
- Visibility within the superconducting electronics and quantum metrology communities
- Preparation for academic, national laboratory, or industry research careers
Scanning SQUID Metrology for Superconducting Electronics
Required qualifications:
- PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field (completed or near completion)
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Evidence of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications
- Demonstration of hands-on experimental research experience with publication(s), e.g. description of
experiments constructed, devices fabricated, etc.
Desired qualifications:
- Experience with cryogenic measurements
- Experience with scanning SQUID imaging
- Proficiency in Python or similar scripting languages for data analysis and experiment control
- U.S. citizen preferred
The postdoctoral associate will have the opportunity to:
- Lead scanning SQUID imaging studies of trapped flux, superconducting circuits, and novel devices
- Develop and optimize SQUID sensors and measurement techniques
- Design and perform high-speed electronic measurements (>10 GHz)
- Design and fabricate novel superconducting circuits and/or sensors using NIST’s advanced cleanroom
facilities - Develop rigorous data analysis pipelines with appropriate statistical validation
- Publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and present findings at major scientific
conferences - Collaborate closely with NIST scientists while maintaining scientific independence and ownership of
research outcomes - Contribute to documentation, software, and data archiving to support long-term impact of the work