Senior Research Associate

Job Summary

The successful applicant will design and test screening systems for superconducting readout circuits that enable next‑generation superconducting spectrometer instruments. Responsibilities include developing screening infrastructure for time‑division SQUID multiplexing (TDM) as part of NIST’s contribution to NASA for the Athena X‑ray satellite project. The infrastructure will incorporate cryogenic hardware, readout electronics, and software for automated control and analysis, with key goals of rapid, reliable screening and high‑throughput data analysis.

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP), a partnership with the University of Colorado Boulder. The research focus is within NIST’s Quantum Electronics Group.

• Continue development and maintenance of cryogenic readout electronics for TDM SQUID multiplexers.
• Develop metrics and measurement protocols to assess quality and yield of the multiplexers.
• Report and communicate screening results to the Quantum Electronics Group and other Athena project members.
• Present results at internal meetings and, when required, to external stakeholders.
• Maintain regular communication of work status with group and project members.

• PhD in Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field.
• Successful completion of an NIST NAIS agreement and federal security clearance.
• Experience in measurement of superconducting devices and cryogenic/room‑temperature readout electronics.

• 10 or more years of relevant experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Salary range for this 62.5% time position is $71,000 – $130,000 annually.

Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance; and an ECO Pass for local transit. Additional perks available through the CU Advantage program.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.