Job Description

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Responsibilities:

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) invites applications for multiple open postdoctoral research positions in the Quantum Sciences and Technology Group (QSTG). Developing new and enabling atomic quantum sensors and clocks, and applying them to precision measurements and fundamental physics are the primary focus of our research efforts. Research activities range from basic concept study, science experiments, proof-of-principle demonstration, to instrument prototype development. Major areas of interest include a) Atomic frequency standards and clocks, b) Atom interferometry and quantum sensors, c) Laser and quantum communication and links, and d) Precision measurements and fundamental physics experiments in space. Currently we are looking for one or more highly motivated and capable postdoctoral researchers in the projects of i) Miniature Space Optical Clock based on singly trapped Yb+ ions (mSOC), ii) Micro Mercury Trapped Ion Clock (M2TIC), iii) various atom interferometer based sensors, iv) Dark energy detection experiments on Einstein Elevator, and v) Bose Einstein Condensate Cold Atom Laboratory (BECCAL).

The successful candidate(s) will have the opportunities to join and participate in one or more research projects, in all aspects of investigation and implementation, experiments and analyses, as well as exploration of science applications of the instruments. The appointee(s) are also encouraged to participate and contribute to other relevant activities in the group as opportunities and interests arise. The appointee(s) will carry out research in collaboration with the JPL advisor, Dr. Nan Yu, and work closely with other staff members and researchers, resulting in publications in the open literature. 

Qualifications

Candidates should have a PhD in Physics, Electric Engineering, Optics, or related physical science discipline with a strong background in relevant fields of atomic, molecular, optical, and quantum physics. Prior experiences and demonstrated experimental research abilities in ultra-cold atoms, Bose Einstein condensate, laser cooling and ion trapping, and atom interferometer and clocks research and instrument development are of great value. Background in precision measurements and fundamental physics are also desired. U.S.-person candidates are preferred for the M2TIC project. Candidates with their PhD within the past five years since the date of their application are eligible. Postdoctoral Scholar positions are awarded for a minimum of one-year period and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years.

Applicants may be subject to additional program requirements by NASA. Postdoctoral Scholar positions are awarded for a minimum of one-year period and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years.

Candidates should submit the following to this site: CV, representative publications, contact information for three references, and a cover letter stating their research accomplishments and interests.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training. Hiring range for this job may be adjusted based on primary work location outside of Pasadena, California. This adjusted range will be provided to candidates by the Recruiter when applicable.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

EEO is the Law.

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Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.