Postdoc: Chip-Scale Photonics for Space Telescope Metrology Lasers

JPL/NASA • Pasadena, CA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The postdoctoral scholar will conduct research and development on chip-scale stable laser systems and supporting electronics and optoelectronics. Research areas include MEMS and nanophotonic technologies such as silicon nitride on-chip etalons and waveguides, lithium niobate modulators and waveguides, heterogeneous integration and packaging of photonic microdevices, on-chip precision atomic and molecular spectroscopy, and chip-scale atomic and molecular vapor cells. Work may also involve DC, RF, and microwave electronics and optoelectronics using semiconductor technologies such as GaN, GaAs, InGaAs, InP, AlN, and diamond, potentially integrated with stable laser systems.

The goal is to develop integrated photonic-electronic-quantum systems for laser metrology in future large space telescopes, as well as high-speed and secure space communications, sensing, power transfer, and similar missions. The appointee will conduct research in collaboration with a JPL advisor, resulting in publications in the open literature. Postdoctoral Scholar appointments are for at least one year and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years. Applicants may be subject to additional NASA program requirements.

Requirements

• PhD in Physics, Photonics, Quantum, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a field relevant to the listed technology areas.
• Familiarity with a few or more of the listed analytical and experimental tools and processes, such as lithography, deposition, etching, annealing, poling, microscopy, nanophotonic design, modeling, RF/microwave design and testing, laser spectroscopy, optical and waveguide characterization, thermal-mechanical stress analysis, IC design, chip bonding, and packaging processes.
• Submit a CV, representative publications, contact information for three references, and a cover letter describing research accomplishments and interests.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development on chip-scale stable laser systems using MEMS and nanophotonic technologies.
• Conduct research on supporting DC, RF, and microwave electronics and optoelectronics, including semiconductor technologies that may be heterogeneously integrated with stable laser systems.
• Contribute to development of integrated photonic-electronic-quantum systems for space telescope laser metrology and other space applications, including communications, sensing, and power transfer.
• Carry out research in collaboration with a JPL advisor and produce publications in the open literature.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision plans
• Wellbeing and retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Learning opportunities
• Rideshare
• Childcare
• Flexible schedule
• Parental leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree