TERM Scientist at Argonne Quantum Foundry

The Q-NEXT quantum center is looking for candidates to fill a TERM Assistant Scientist staff position to help support the Argonne Quantum Foundry (AQF) – a state-of-the-art materials synthesis, fabrication, and characterization facility for quantum information science (QIS). A successful candidate will be part of a dynamic team working with a group of scientists from Argonne, University of Chicago, and throughout the Q-NEXT partnership (academic, industry, and national labs), using their skills to aide in technical and integrated systems development, process development and optimization, automation, and database support of a wide range of quantum information research endeavors. The candidate will also primarily work on developing integrated heterostructures based on thin membranes and bonded interfaces, in particular materials processing and development related to heterogeneous integration.The candidate is also expected to work with and train students on processing and nanofabrication, as well as work with technologists, and other personnel on a variety of tasks in support of the broader Q-NEXT Argonne Quantum Foundry mission.Additionally, the candidate will be encouraged to pursue their own scientific directions including materials platform development, device processing and integration, automation, and interfacing to progress within the broader scientific missions within the Q-NEXT center.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and support synthesis and fabrication of diamond and SiC materials platforms for heterogeneous integration.
• Contribute to the ongoing efforts to provide a safe and inclusive work environment for all.  This will include involvement in the ongoing workforce development initiatives, including mentorship opportunities.
• Seek collaborations within and beyond Q-NEXT that leverage the unique AQF materials platforms.  Continue to collaborate with other scientists within Q-NEXT and more broadly with scientists at Argonne, including graduate and post-doctoral students from institutions within Q-NEXT and various other research groups involved. 
• Maintain a working knowledge of the technological tools as well as maintain developments in the field and related processes that can be used to contribute to the technological 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.

Position Requirements

• Knowledge and experience with thin-film / membrane fabrication, delamination processes, wafer bonding, crystal polishing, and materials transfer techniques.
• Knowledge and experience with nanophotonic device design and fabrication, standard photo and e-beam lithographic techniques, and other standard nanofabrication processes.
• Knowledge and experience of laboratory facilities, building infrastructure, and technical tool maintenance.
• Experience with integrated code sets for experimental optoelectronic hardware integration and optimization.
• Knowledge and experience of cryogenic experiments, vacuum (UHV) systems, , and experimental electronics.
• Demonstrated skill in written and oral communication.
• Experience collaborating with others and the ability to work with a team in an interdisciplinary environment.

• Experience with material synthesis (growth) tools, nano-fabrication (clean room), process development in a scientific and research environment is desirable.
• Experience with microwave electronics, cryogenic experiments, materials integration, and quantum characterization is desirable.
• Ability to work normal daytime work hours at the Argonne site.  Occasional travel and overtime may be required.
• Ability to work independently and without constant direction in the performance of routine tasks.

Minimum Education / Experience Requirements:

• RD2 Level:  Academic background in Physics, Applied physics, Electrical engineering, or related engineering field.  For PhD level, at least 2+ years of experience with materials synthesis, or opto-electronic laboratory environments (or equivalent).  Lab management experience is preferred.

Job Family

Research Development (RD)

Job Profile

Physics 2

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, Argonne encourages minorities, women, veterans