Postdoctoral Scholar – Quantum Emitter Optical Spectroscopy

The Raja group at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (LBNL) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar – Quantum Emitter Optical Spectroscopy. 

In this exciting role, you will study the optical properties of single-quantum emitters in silicon and 2D transition metal dichalcogenides. You will work in a highly collaborative environment that includes Berkeley Lab, UC Berkeley, Rice University, and Dartmouth, contributing to the Quantum Defect Genome effort to discover and validate novel emitters for quantum information science.

What You Will Do:

• Perform advanced optical measurements, including cryogenic and magneto-optical spectroscopy, with time-resolved and spatially resolved capabilities in the visible and near-infrared. 
• Build, maintain, and optimize experimental setups, including systems for optical measurements in the scanning tunneling microscope. 
• Prepare and characterize 2D material heterostructures in support of optical and thermal experiments. 
• Automate parts of sample fabrication, and data analysis to improve efficiency and reproducibility. 
• Maintain and repair optical characterization setups, manage vendor relationships, and handle procurement as needed. 
• Contribute in regular multi-institution team meetings and share weekly progress updates and presentations in group meetings. 
• Publish as first author and co-author, help write proposals and user requests for facilities such as the Molecular Foundry, and document experiments with routine cloud backups. 
• Ensure a safe, organized lab environment and help mentor graduate students, undergraduates, and interns.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Strong proficiency in time-resolved optical microscopy and spectroscopy, including techniques such as luminescence, Raman, and reflectance, as well as associated electronics and hardware/software integration.
• Experience with Python-based programming tools for data analysis, automation, and instrument control.
• Hands-on experience operating and maintaining cryogenic systems, including cryostats.
• Proficiency in working with nanomaterials and nanoscale experimental techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to independently plan, execute, and complete complex research projects.
• Established publication record and proven ability to communicate scientific results effectively through written reports and oral presentations.
• Knowledge of quantum information science, particularly as it relates to single-quantum emitters, defect physics, or nanophotonics.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, scientists, technicians, and students.
• Experience preparing clear and concise updates, both written and verbal, for internal reports, external reviews, or funding agencies.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 2 year, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• The monthly salary range for this position is $5,757 - $6,903. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.