Postdoctoral Researcher for Quantum Sensing and Light-Emission

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Requisition Id 13760 

Overview: 

Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS) Division is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join an exciting and dynamic research environment. This position sits at the intersection of spin-based quantum sensing, optical imaging, solid-state single-photon sources, and fundamental materials science. At CNMS, we leverage the unique properties of quantum systems, such as color centers in diamonds, to develop innovative sensing techniques with applications in magnetic imaging. Our spin-based quantum sensing capabilities are undergoing significant expansion, with the installation of an ambient scanning nitrogen vacancy (NV) microscope, the imminent addition of a cryogenic scanning NV microscope, and the construction of a new cryogenic widefield/confocal spin-based sensing platform. These cutting-edge platforms will enable the successful candidate to pioneer new imaging and sensing modalities, explore novel solid-state spin sensors, and investigate nanoscale magnetic order and spin fluctuations.

In addition to NV centers in diamond, emerging solid-state single-photon sources such as color centers in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) offer exciting potential for photonic quantum information technologies. As a postdoctoral scholar, you will have the opportunity to investigate these novel quantum emitters, particularly hBN-based systems, fabricate photonic interfaces, and characterize photon and spin properties using a cryostat integrated with microwave sources and superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors. You will have the ability to focus on quantum sensing, quantum emitters, or both, allowing for flexibility based on your research interests and expertise. This position resides in the Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Group, Nanomaterials Characterization Section, CNMS Division, Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Design and execute experimental protocols using color centers and solid-state single photon emitters (SPEs).
  • Operate NV microscopes and perform research with cryogenic optical microscopes.
  • Probe magnetic ordering and spin fluctuations using advanced spin-based quantum sensors.
  • Fabricate photonic interfaces for SPE integration.
  • Characterize SPEs using a cryostat integrated with VIS and NIR spectrometers,  as well as superconducting nanowire SPEs that cover a 400-1600 nm spectral range.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data.
  • Prepare manuscripts for publication and present research findings at international conferences and workshops.
  • Adhere to and promote environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
  • Maintain a commitment to ORNL’s values and ethics and contribute to a productive scientific community.
  • Uphold ORNL’s mission through behaviors and interactions that reflect our core values: Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Basic Qualifications:

  • PhD in physics, materials science, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related field obtained within the last 5 years.
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills in English.
  • A strong record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
  • Demonstrated expertise in quantum sensing, solid state light emission, or related fields.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with solid-state color center-based quantum sensors and cryogenic optical microscopes.
  • Experience with SPEs from hBN.
  • Familiarity with microwave electronics.
  • Experience with optical imaging techniques such as super-resolution microscopy, MOKE, and confocal microscopy.
  • Advanced programming and data visualization skills.
  • A strong record of innovative research as evidenced by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at significant conferences.

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Please submit three letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

  • Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
  • View Profile
  • Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

About ORNL

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an extraordinary 80-year history of solving the nation’s biggest problems. We have a dedicated and creative staff of over 6,000 people! Our vision for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is to cultivate an environment and practices that foster diversity in ideas and in the people across the organization, as well as to ensure ORNL is recognized as a workplace of choice. These elements are critical for enabling the execution of ORNL’s broader mission to accelerate scientific discoveries and their translation into energy, environment, and security solutions for the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.


If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.


ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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