NIST PREP Graduate Student in Metrology for Continuous Variable Quantum Computing and Networking

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest, thus requires that such institutions must be the recipient of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.

Research Title: Metrology for Continuous Variable Quantum Computing and Networking

The work will entail:  Optical quantum metrology encompasses the generation, detection, characterization, and verification of quantum states of light, including the detection apparatus and use of quantum entanglement to enhance sensitivity compared to classical methods. The project focusses on tools and protocols that can be used for applications in continuous variable quantum networking and using quantum-enhanced measurement protocols for exotic quantum states of light. The candidate will work with renowned theorists and experimentalists and will have the opportunity to make use of cutting-edge equipment, such as photon-number resolving detectors and extremely high-quality single-photon sources. Tasks include the development of a squeezing source for exotic quantum state of light generation and the associated measurement tools, such as a homodyne detector and optical fiber phase stabilization. Due to the complexity of measurements and to ensure a consistent application of measurement protocols, automated measurement and data analysis procedures will be necessary.

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Development of a squeezed vacuum source for continuous variable quantum networking and associated homodyne detection apparatus.
• Develop source and detection characterization protocols.
• Conceptualizing novel and useful quantum optical research ideas and their associated experiments.
• Presenting results at internal and external meetings and conferences.
• Producing high-quality publications based on research and results.
• Ensuring that results, protocols, software, and documentation have been archived or otherwise transmitted to the larger organization.
• Collaborate with team members and share expertise

Qualifications

• US citizenship preferred.
• Experience with lasers and related setups
• 3 or more years of relevant experimental experience.
• Expertise in Quantum Optics, Quantum mechanics and Quantum Information Systems (QIS).
• Ability to build complex and extensive quantum optical experiments.
• Ability to develop prototypes and deployable tools used in advanced quantum field experiments.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and strong presentation skills.
• Programming skills in Matlab and/or Python
• Electrical circuit design and use of photodetectors
• Must be able to work independently and with other researchers while under the guidance of a mentor

Privacy Act Statement
Authority:  15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose:  The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the  Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor’s degree holders, graduate students, master’s degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses:  NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices:  NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure:  Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated.

SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.

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