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Syracuse University

Postdoctoral Researcher - Quantum Device Physics for Rare-Event Searches

Syracuse, United States

Job #

078526

Job Title

Location

Syracuse, NY

Pay Range

$62,400 - $70,000

Pay Determination

Salary offers at Syracuse University will be based on education, experience, and relevant skills, as well as the academic or professional discipline of the position in the context of the home department, school, or college. Salary offers may also be influenced by prior relevant work or industry experience, where applicable.

FLSA Status

Exempt

Hours

Determined by Supervisor.

Job Type

Full-time

Rank

Post Doc

Campus

Syracuse, NY

Unionized Position Code

Not Applicable

Job Description

The Quantum Sensing and Rare-Event Detection Group in the Department of Physics at Syracuse University, led by Prof. Caleb Fink, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the area of quantum device physics for applications in fundamental particle physics and quantum information science (QIS).

The successful candidate will contribute to a new research program focused on the design, fabrication, and characterization of superconducting quantum devices and their integration into dark matter and neutrino detectors. Projects include:

Development of cavity-coupled Cooper-pair transistor (cCPT)–based charge amplifiers for sub-electron sensitivity in rare-event searches.

Continued development of SQUAT devices for novel sensing applications (arXiv:2310.01345).

Collaborative work on SPLENDOR, a modular narrow-gap semiconductor detector platform for light dark matter (arXiv:2507.17782, arXiv:2311.02229).

Related projects at the interface of quantum sensing, condensed matter physics, and astroparticle physics.

Much of this work will be carried out in close collaboration with Stanford/SLAC and other national laboratory and university partners, providing opportunities for joint projects, travel, and engagement with a broader quantum sensing and particle physics community. The position is also affiliated with the Syracuse Institute for Quantum and Information Science, offering access to a vibrant network of researchers in quantum information science, condensed matter physics, and device engineering.

Qualified candidates should submit their curriculum vitae with a list of publications, a cover letter describing their qualifications and research interests, and the e-mail addresses of three references to the online position posting. Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. We welcome applications from individuals who bring a range of skills, background, experiences, and perspectives.

Qualifications

Ph.D. in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering, or a related field at the time of appointment. Candidates must have received their Ph.D. within the past 5 years.
Experience in at least one of the following areas: superconducting device physics, cryogenic measurements, quantum sensing, solid-state detectors, RF/microwave systems, dark matter detection, neutrino physics, or cosmology.
Strong interest in both fundamental particle physics applications and quantum device science.
Ability to work collaboratively across institutions.

Job Specific Qualifications

While the following are not required, we are seeking candidates who possess these preferred qualifications:

Prior record conducting experimental research in low-temperature physics, quantum devices, or particle detector instrumentation.
Experience with microwave electronics, device modeling, or nanofabrication.

Responsibilities

Conceive, design, and conduct experiments on superconducting sensors and related devices.
Perform data analysis and simulations; report and publish results.
Supervise graduate and undergraduate students in the group.
Collaborate with external teams at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (device fabrication, RF readout) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (materials development).
Participate in joint meetings and occasional travel to partner institutions for experimental campaigns.

Physical Requirements

Not Applicable

Tools/Equipment

Not Applicable

Application Instructions

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.

The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University’s 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.

About the Syracuse area

Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.

EEO Statement

Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.

Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans

Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University’s contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.

Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community

Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.

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