Postdoctoral Fellowship, Quantum Simulation with Rydberg Atom Arrays (Experiment)

The Transformative Quantum Technologies (TQT) program at the University of Waterloo has several openings for Postdoctoral Fellowships (PDFs).

These prestigious positions are available immediately and intended for early-career scientists with an advanced degree (PhD). The selected fellow(s) will join the research group of a Principal Investigator through a TQT-funded project, and contribute to the collaborative TQT research community.

Please visit the University of Waterloo website for more information on Postdoctoral positions.

Principal Investigator: Alexandre Cooper-Roy 

Project: Quantum Simulation with Rydberg Atom Arrays (Experiment)

Research Area: Atomic, molecular, and optical physics (AMO), quantum control, quantum simulation

Relevant Fields: Quantum information science, quantum many-body physics, spin dynamics, quantum simulation, quantum optimal control, quantum optics, atomic physics.

Required Skills:

• PhD in a field of research related to experimental quantum physics
• Hands-on experience building, operating, and maintaining both the hardware and software of complex scientific apparatuses. Our quantum simulator comprises an ultra-high vacuum system, high-power low-noise lasers (ECDL, Ti:Sa, Fiber), stabilization systems (optical phase lock loop, high-finesse cavity), digital and analog control electronics, active diffractive optical elements (spatial light modulators, acousto-optic deflectors), free-space and integrated optics, optomechanical systems.
• Solid background and analytical skills in experimental quantum physics, as needed to efficiently collect and analyze data, model and simulate physical processes, and engage in productive discussions with theoretical quantum physicists.
• Demonstrated programming skills for data acquisition and processing, e.g., Python, Matlab.

Role: The postdoctoral researcher in experimental quantum physics will support all aspects of our research activities: building, characterizing, maintaining, and upgrading our quantum simulator; designing, conducting, and debugging scientific experiments; analyzing and sharing data in written and oral forms.

The ideal candidate will be a proactive, goal-driven individual committed to excellence with demonstrated experimental skills in building, operating, and maintaining complex scientific apparatuses, as well as conducting experiments on coherent quantum systems. The ability to translate theoretical proposals into concrete experimental plans will enable the harnessing of our operational capability to deliver impactful results that directly benefit both the scientific community and early adopters of our technology. We are seeking individuals that can work effectively as both individual contributors and team leaders, acting as a role model whose skills and behavior inspire students and colleagues.

Number of Openings: 1

About us: The Quantum Simulation Group in the Transformative Quantum Technologies Program at the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo in Canada was established in September 2019 to accelerate the development of novel quantum materials by harnessing the power of quantum simulators. Our first-generation quantum simulation exploits configurations of neutral atoms (rubidium-87) in programmable arrays of optical traps to simulate quantum many-body models in synthetic two-dimensional materials. The group of 8-10 undergraduate and graduate students is led by Dr. Alexandre Cooper-Roy and advised by Dr. Jim Shaffer and Prof. David Cory.

If you are interested in learning more about our research activities and/or applying to the position, please reach out directly to Alexandre Cooper-Roy at alexandre.cooper@uwaterloo.ca.

The appointment is for two years with the possibility of renewal upon satisfactory performance. The salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The Principal Investigators are especially interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.

These PDF positions are made possible thanks in part to funding from the Canada First Research Excellence Fund.

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The University of Waterloo regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. As such, we encourage applications from women, Indigenous Persons (First Nations, Metis and Inuit), persons with disabilities, persons of all sexual and gender identities/expressions, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. At Waterloo, you will have the opportunity to work across disciplines and collaborate with an international community of scholars and a diverse student body, situated in a rapidly growing community that has been termed a “hub of innovation.” All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.