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Photonics Postdoc Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Validate emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large-scale ... While prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, this role is also open to candidates ...

Postdoctoral Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$67K - $100K/yr

Job Summary The Faint Photonics and Quantum Nanophotonics Groups in the Applied Physics Division at NIST in Boulder, CO, are working to develop a time-resolved emission microscopy tools employing ...

Senior Quantum Scientist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$126K - $181K/yr

Validate emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large-scale ... While prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, this role is also open to candidates ...

Photonics Postdoc information

What is a photonics postdoc?

Photonics Postdocs are researchers who have completed their doctoral studies and are engaged in advanced research in the field of photonics, which involves the study and application of light (photons). They typically work at universities, research institutions, or industry labs to develop new optical technologies, conduct experiments, and publish scientific papers. These positions are often temporary, lasting from one to three years, and are intended to further develop the researcher's expertise and prepare them for permanent academic or industry roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photonics postdoc?

To thrive as a Photonics Postdoc, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field, with expertise in optics and photonics principles. Familiarity with optical simulation software, laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is typically required, along with experience in experimental design. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and clear scientific communication are essential soft skills for success. These competencies enable innovative research, effective teamwork, and dissemination of findings in a highly technical and collaborative academic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by photonics postdocs when transitioning from academic research to industry roles?

Photonics postdocs often find the shift from academia to industry challenging due to differences in project timelines, expectations, and communication styles. In industry, results-driven projects may require faster turnaround and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, emphasizing practical applications over theoretical exploration. Adjusting to proprietary research, intellectual property policies, and the need for concise reporting are also common hurdles. Developing strong project management and communication skills can help ease this transition and open opportunities for career growth in both research and development settings.

What are popular job titles related to Photonics Postdoc jobs in Colorado?

For Photonics Postdoc jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Photonics Postdoc jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Photonics Postdoc job openings:

Senior Quantum Scientist

IonQ

Boulder, CO • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Location: This role is based at our Boulder, CO office, with the option to work a few days a week remotely.
Travel: Up to 5%
Job ID:
1777

The Role: 

We are pioneering advancements in quantum computing by utilizing trapped ion technology and our proprietary laser-free quantum control methods. Our research and development efforts build on our fully integrated quantum processors that can be fabricated within standard silicon foundries. This unique approach allows us to leverage the highest-performing qubit technology while ensuring scalability and manufacturability using existing semiconductor fabrication technology. We approach quantum computing with a focus on minimizing errors, striving to achieve ultra-low gate errors at scale. Our immediate objective is to develop functional quantum computers within the NISQ regime, aiming to construct fault-tolerant machines that require minimal QEC overhead. Our recent breakthroughs include achieving 99.97% fidelity in two-qubit gates and 99.9992% fidelity in single-qubit operations without error correction, setting new industry standards for performance.

Responsibilities:

As a Quantum Scientist, you will be at the forefront of our research efforts, working hands-on with our current hardware while helping to shape future generations of quantum processors. Your work will span designing, debugging, and executing experiments, developing novel control schemes, and pushing the boundaries of system performance.

You will:

  • Prototype and characterize coherent control and cooling schemes for trapped-ion qubits using laser and microwave fields.
  • Calibrate and benchmark quantum systems, focusing on achieving ultra-low gate errors and optimizing performance across device modules.
  • Validate emerging trap technologies, including integrated electronics and photonics for large-scale architectures.
  • Analyze experimental data, debug complex hardware/software interactions, and ensure reliability of qubit operations.
  • Present results internally and externally, representing Oxford Ionics at conferences and in collaborations.

Requirements:

You will need a PhD in physics or a related discipline, with a strong foundation in atomic or qubit-related physics. While prior postdoctoral or industry experience is valuable, this role is also open to candidates moving directly from a PhD. A solid background in quantum control, with hands-on experience in calibration, benchmarking, or coherent control of qubits, will be key to success. Practical skills in control software, hardware integration, or experimental data analysis are also important.

You will need:

  • Proven expertise in experimental AMO physics or quantum computing.  Experience with trapped ions is preferred.
  • Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a fast-moving team
  • Prior experience in one or more of the following: spectroscopy or simulation of multi-level systems, characterization of control hardware, gate fidelity benchmarking or running algorithms on hardware
  • Strong proficiency in programming and data analysis.
  • A track record of scientific communication through publications, talks and conferences.


The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity, and a range of benefit options found on our career site.