Assistant Scientist Materials Research for Quantum Information Science

The Q-NEXT quantum center is looking for candidates to fill a Assistant Scientist staff position to lead a research program exploring the intersection of QIS relevant materials and X-ray microscopy and spectroscopy – with a particular focus on understanding the fundamental materials limitations to qubit performance across a variety of QIS systems. A successful candidate will be part of a diverse team of scientists from Argonne, University of Chicago, and the broader Q-NEXT community (academic, industry, and national labs), using their skills to design and measure the structural dynamics of superconducting circuits, semiconductor qubit host materials, and hybrid interfaces.  Emphasis will be placed on developing and performing XRD studies at the Advanced Photon Source and other large scale light source user facilities that establish the fundamental physics of qubit-host and hybrid interactions from a crystallographic perspective, using the capabilities at Argonne National Lab, UChicago, and Q-NEXT. The candidate will manage multiple collaborations with academic and industry partners to advance shared research goals and will have the opportunity to work with and train graduate students. The candidate is also encouraged to collaborate across related hybrid-based quantum science projects in Q-NEXT at Argonne.

Primary responsibilities:

• Develop new research directions studying emerging QIS-relevant materials platforms and hybrid approaches exploring the broad mechanisms that limit quantum inter-connects for a wide range of quantum applications.
• Seek collaborations within Q-NEXT (and beyond) that can provide fundamental insights in QIS-relevant materials and qubit characteristics.
• Develop novel x-ray spectroscopy and microscopy techniques that continue to push the capabilities in exploring quantum defects and QIS systems at the nanoscale.
• Maintain a working knowledge of technological tools as well as maintain developments in the field that will contribute to the success of ongoing Q-NEXT projects.
• Participate in writing scientific papers, maintaining technical reports and documents associated with the operation of lab equipment, reports on experimental progress, technical developments, and new initiatives.
• Contribute to the ongoing efforts to provide a safe and nurturing research environment. This will include involvement in ongoing workforce development, including mentorship opportunities.

Position Requirements

• RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years of experience, Masters and 3+ years, or PhD and 0+ years, or equivalent. Academic background in physics, applied physics, quantum information science, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience with synthesis, fabrication and advanced characterization of quantum material systems.
• Knowledge and experience with x-ray spectroscopy and microscopy at synchrotron and/or x-ray free electron sources.
• Knowledge and experience with advanced data analysis techniques.
• Knowledge and experience working with quantum-relevant materials systems.
• Demonstrated skill in written and oral communication.
• Experience collaborating with others and the ability to work with an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to work normal daytime work hours at the Argonne site in Lemont, Illinois.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Ability to work independently and without constant direction in the performance of routine tasks.
• Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork.

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Physics 2

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.