Postdoctoral Fellow; PREP

Overview

Postdoctoral Research Associate (PREP) – Scanning SQUID Metrology for Superconducting Electronics

The postdoctoral associate will conduct original research focused on developing advanced scanning superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry to study superconducting electronic systems. Core research directions include improving SQUID sensor performance, imaging and understanding flux trapping, and evaluating mitigation strategies in high-speed superconducting circuits.

• Lead scanning SQUID imaging studies of trapped flux, superconducting circuits, and novel devices
• Develop and optimize SQUID sensors and measurement techniques
• Design and perform high-speed electronic measurements (>10 GHz)
• Design and fabricate novel superconducting circuits and/or sensors using NIST's advanced cleanroom facilities
• Develop rigorous data analysis pipelines with appropriate statistical validation
• Publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and present findings at major scientific conferences
• Collaborate closely with NIST scientists while maintaining scientific independence and ownership of research outcomes
• Contribute to documentation, software, and data archiving to support long-term impact of the work

• Required Qualifications
• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field (completed or near completion)
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Evidence of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications
• Hands-on experimental research experience with publication(s) and documented experiments/devices

• Desired Qualifications
• Experience with cryogenic measurements
• Experience with scanning SQUID imaging
• Proficiency in Python or similar scripting languages for data analysis and experiment control
• U.S. citizen preferred

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) and supports collaboration between NIST scientists and PREP-affiliated academic institutions. The position is suitable for early-career researchers aiming to build an independent research profile in superconducting electronics and quantum-enabled metrology. Our group has deep expertise in microwave metrology, nanoscale device characterization, and superconducting circuit design, fabrication, and measurement.

The Johns Hopkins University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics. The university is committed to providing qualified individuals access to all academic and employment programs, benefits and activities on the basis of demonstrated ability, performance and merit.