Postdoctoral Research Associate | Los Alamos, NM | Los Alamos National Laboratory

Postdoctoral Research Associate

What You Will DoyWhat You Will Do
The Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies (CINT) within the Materials Physics and Applications Division (MPA) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has multiple postdoctoral research positions available. We are seeking talented and highly motivated researchers with strong backgrounds in experimental quantum optics, quantum sensing, and imaging using entangled photons or squeezed states of light. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work with a dynamic, multidisciplinary research team to explore emerging quantum phenomena, develop innovative quantum optical technologies, and advance quantum-enhanced sensing and imaging across multiple spatial scales, from macroscopic to long-range remote detection.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Demonstrate experience with quantum optics/photonics experiment design, setting up and testing of entangled state of photons.
  • Demonstrated experience in designing experiments, measurements, and data analysis for quantum imaging and sensing.
  • Demonstrate ability to conduct original research in areas of quantum, nonlinear and ultrafast optics and/or related topics.
  • Demonstrate ability to work harmoniously in a diverse multi-disciplinary team.
  • Demonstrate strong writing and communication skills, as evidenced by publications and cover letters.

Education/Experience: Ph.D. in experimental quantum optics or a related area completed within the last 5 years or to be completed soon

Desired Qualifications:
  • Hands-on experience in nonlinear and quantum optics, optical parametric amplification
  • (OPA/OPO/DOPA), squeezed-light generation, low-noise photodetection, and precision laser stabilization.
  • Experience in entangled photon-pair generation using nonlinear optical crystals, single-photon detection, quantum-state tomography, and quantum-enhanced sensing is highly desirable.
  • Experience in the design, fabrication, and characterization of metamaterials and metasurfaces is a plus.
  • Proficiency with commercially available simulation and computational tools (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics, CST Studio Suite, MATLAB) for photonics and electromagnetic modeling. Demonstrated record of scientific accomplishments, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and contributions to innovative research.
  • Results-oriented, with strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively and productively across multiple research projects.


Work Environment:

Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Note to Applicants:

Contact Dr. Abul Azad (aazad@lanl.gov) about this position. Please attach a CV, publication list, a brief statement of research interests and future plans (one page maximum), and the names of at least three references to your application.

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.

No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.

New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.

Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947

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