• Research Associate - KIPAC

    SLAC National Accelerator LaboratoryMenlo Park, CA 94025

    Job #2683127324

  • Research Associate - KIPAC

    Job ID

    5731

    Location

    SLAC - Menlo Park, CA

    Full-Time

    Temporary

    SLAC Job Postings

    Position Overview:

    The DM/QIS (Dark Matter + Quantum Information Science) Group invites applications for a postdoctoral Research Associate position at the Kavli Institute of Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology (KIPAC) at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. The initial appointment will be made for a term of three years, and offers excellent benefits and salary.

    The DM/QIS group is developing novel ultra-sensitive detectors to probe sub-MeV dark matter, a mass range inaccessible by current detector technologies. To that end, group members are involved in developing:

    • Detectors and readout for low bandgap quantum materials (with the SPLENDOR collaboration)

    • Low-threshold TES-based sensors on carbon-based substrates (with the SuperCDMS collaboration)

    • Design and fabrication of qubit-based phonon and photon sensors (with the BREAD collaboration)

    • Fabrication and readout of kinetic inductance detector (KIDs)

    • Optical to THz calibration for various superconducting sensors

    The specific focus of this position will be the development and application of a calibration system for cryogenic devices to investigate superconducting device properties and determine suitability for future dark matter experiments. There may also be opportunities to engage in the installation of the SuperCDMS dark matter experiment, analysis of SuperCDMS data, or any of the DM/QIS activities listed above.

    Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work.

    Qualifications:

    Candidates must have a Ph.D. (or equivalent) in physics or a related field prior to starting the appointment, no later than Summer/Fall 2024. A successful candidate will demonstrate a record of leadership, communication, and creative problem solving. Previous experience with developing dark matter detectors, performing data analysis, building laser systems (optical to THz regime), fabricating or operating superconducting devices, or working in dilution refrigerators is desirable but not required.

    Candidates should provide a curriculum vitae including a publication list, a 3-page statement of research interests and plans, and arrange to have at least three letters of recommendation submitted to the same site. We encourage applicants to follow the structure of the AAS advice on the contents of CVs and research statements given here: ~~~ . We also encourage applicants, as a component of their research statement or as an additional statement (up to one page), to discuss their experience with or commitment to engaging in mentoring, outreach, teaching, public policy, fostering inclusive environments, or activities that diversify the field.

    More information about KIPAC can be found at ~~~ . KIPAC is committed to an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from candidates who will diversify the workforce in astrophysics and cosmology and/or will bring additional dimensions to Stanford and SLAC's research and educational missions. More information about Stanford's ongoing commitment to a diverse and inclusive environment can be found at ~~~ (~~~) .

    For further information regarding the position, please contact Dr. Kelly Stifter ( ~~~ ).

    SLAC employee competencies:

    • Effective Decisions : Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.

    • Self-Development : Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.

    • Dependability : Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.

    • Initiative : Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.

    • Adaptability : Flexes as needed when change occurs, and maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.

    • Communication : Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, and presented messages

    • Relationships : Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve.

    Physical requirements and Working conditions:

    • Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

    Work standards:

    • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.

    • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1-General Policy and Responsibilities: ~~~

    • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, ~~~

    ~

    Classification Title: Research Assoc-Experimental

    Grade: G

    Job Code: 0127

    Duration: Fixed Term

    The expected pay range for this position is $70,000 to $90,000 per annum. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

    SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. All staff at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory must be able to demonstrate the legal right to work in the United States. SLAC is an E-Verify employer.