Postdoctoral Appointee - Superconducting Qubits

Argonne National Laboratory • Lemont, IL

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Argonne QIS Group in MSD and Q-NEXT seeks a postdoctoral researcher to design, fabricate, and measure next-generation superconducting qubits at Argonne. The primary project focuses on designing and developing novel fabrication methods for trilayer superconducting qubits, particularly by incorporating atomic-scale processing, such as atomic layer etching and deposition, into the process workflow. The work also includes materials and electrical characterization of superconducting devices, including Josephson junctions. The successful candidate may also participate in related efforts in quantum sensing and hybrid quantum systems.

The appointee will lead experimental development and optimization of nanofabrication processes, contribute to the setup and operation of a new dilution refrigerator system, and participate in scientific writing, reporting, documentation, initiatives, and presentations. The role includes contributing to a safe and inclusive work environment and workforce development, including mentorship opportunities. The position requires working at the Argonne site in Lemont, Illinois, at least three days per week, during normal daytime work hours.

Requirements

• Completed a PhD within the last 0–5 years.
• Knowledge and experience with nanofabrication.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with microwave and quantum control electronics.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with cryogenics and vacuum systems.
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to work normal daytime hours at the Argonne site in Lemont, Illinois, at least three days per week.
• Ability to work independently and without constant direction on routine tasks.
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
• Doctorate in physics, materials science, or a related field.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with superconducting thin films is desired.
• Demonstrated interest in quantum information science with superconducting devices.
• Participation in related efforts in quantum sensing and hybrid quantum systems is encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Lead experimental development and optimization of nanofabrication processes for trilayer superconducting qubits at Argonne.
• Contribute to the setup and operation of a new dilution refrigerator system.
• Contribute to a safe and inclusive work environment, including through workforce development and mentorship opportunities.
• Build and maintain a working knowledge of technological tools.
• Participate in writing scientific papers and experimental progress reports.
• Document technical developments, drive new initiatives, and present results.
• Perform materials and electrical characterization of superconducting devices, including Josephson junctions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

What This Job Offers

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