Laser Scientist
About The Position
As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge fundamental optical physics and scalable chip-scale technology. You will develop custom laser systems from initial concept through system-level integration, focusing on transitioning high-precision frequency combs and ultra-low-noise systems from discrete components to Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) platforms. Through benchtop metrology and chip-level simulation, you will advance laser architectures for quantum timing, atomic clocks, and inertial sensors. The role is with Vector Atomic, an IonQ company building quantum technology for navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. The team works collaboratively in a hands-on environment to turn quantum technology into practical solutions.
Requirements
- At least 3 years of professional experience working with ultra-stable cavities, frequency combs, or atomic clocks.
- PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, focused on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics.
- Hands-on experience measuring RIN, frequency noise, and phase noise using Phase Noise Analyzers and high-speed RF equipment.
- Experience with supercontinuum generation or SHG in bulk crystals, nonlinear fibers, or integrated waveguides.
- Proficiency in fiber fusion splicing (PM/specialty), fiber spooling, and high-tolerance free-space assembly.
- Must meet applicable U.S. export-control eligibility requirements: U.S. citizenship, lawful U.S. permanent residency, or qualifying refugee or asylee status.
Nice To Haves
- Proficiency with simulation suites such as Lumerical (FDTD/MODE) or COMSOL for designing waveguides and resonators.
- Deep understanding of mode-locked lasers and fceo detection and stabilization.
- Practical experience with chip-level probing and edge or grating coupling, particularly for SiN, Thin-Film Lithium Niobate, or Tantala.
- Strong understanding of PID control loops, high-bandwidth feedback, and low-noise frequency/power controllers.
- Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for automating optical characterization and processing high-bandwidth noise data.
- Experience with high-efficiency laser-to-chip integration and coupling techniques.
Responsibilities
- Develop custom laser systems, from fiber-based oscillators to integrated chip-scale architectures.
- Design and simulate PIC layouts optimized for high-Q micro-resonators and dispersion-engineered nonlinear optics using materials such as SiN, TFLN, and Tantala.
- Architect the migration of frequency combs and low-noise systems from discrete fiber and free-space components to PIC platforms.
- Build and characterize conventional systems, including fiber spooling, MOPA configurations, and discrete nonlinear conversion stages.
- Characterize frequency noise, phase noise, and Allan deviation at benchtop and chip levels.
- Develop testing protocols for stabilization architectures, including PDH locking and f-2f self-referencing.
- Collaborate with hardware teams to integrate laser systems into atomic clocks and quantum timing sensors.
Benefits
- Platinum-level family medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Employer 401(k) contributions
- 20 days of paid time off and 11 paid holidays
- Paid parental leave
- Fully stocked kitchen
- Competitive compensation package including base salary, bonus, equity, and benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
