Experimental Atomic Physicist

Computational Physics•Washington, DC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our customers at the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO). The USNO is responsible for the creation, dissemination and maintenance of precise time and navigation products for the Department of Defense and other customers. CPI is seeking an Experimental Physicist with a background in atomic, molecular or optical physics to support next-generation atomic clock development at USNO. The successful candidate will support the work of the Clock Development division on optical lattice clocks and cold-atom beam optical clocks based on alkaline earth atoms. The new Physicist will work with a team of CPI contractors and USNO Scientists to develop robust solutions for high-uptime optical clocks and the infrastructure for their integration into the USNO timescale. Most work for this position will be completed on-site at USNO in Washington, D.C.; occasional travel to conferences within and outside of the continental United States may be required based on the needs of the customer. Relocation assistance is available. The successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance upon hiring, an active clearance is not required at the time of application. The new Physicist will work closely with other CPI contractors and federal employees in the Precise Time Department, providing periodic updates to the Clock Development Division Chief.

Requirements

PhD in Experimental Atomic Physics or similar field
At least 6 years of experimental physics experience, this can include relevant work toward an advanced degree.
Data analysis using Python or similar programming language
Familiarity with lasers, optics and atomic spectroscopy
Familiarity with feedback control theory and electronics
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Candidate must obtain a SECRET clearance upon hiring.
U.S. citizenship is required for DoD contracts.

Nice To Haves

Atomic clocks
Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth atoms
Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
Hands on experience with python-based experimental control (e.g. ARTIQ)

Responsibilities

Support next-generation atomic clock development at USNO.
Support the work of the Clock Development division on optical lattice clocks and cold-atom beam optical clocks based on alkaline earth atoms.
Develop robust solutions for high-uptime optical clocks and the infrastructure for their integration into the USNO timescale.
Provide periodic updates to the Clock Development Division Chief.