Research Associate or Research Scientist​/Engineer

Research Associate or Research Scientist/Engineer

Montana State University – Office of Student Engagement (OSU) invites applications for the position of Research Associate or Research Scientist/Engineer to contribute to grant and contract research in applied optics and photonics.

Krishna Rupavatharam
(406) 994‑7675
krishna.rupavatharam

• Conduct, report, and publish scientific/engineering research projects in applied optics, photonics, and quantum technologies.
• Supervise undergraduate and graduate researchers, assign tasks, provide technical assistance, and monitor progress.
• Collaborate with research teams to develop new areas of applied optics and quantum technologies and contribute to funding proposals.
• Interact productively with MSU faculty and local industry to commercialize new technologies.
• Execute specialized and advanced assignments with minimal supervision.

• Research Associate:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field with 2+ years of research experience in applied optics or quantum technology (academic or industry), or a Master’s degree with similar experience.
  • Successful record in Experimental Quantum Optics, Quantum Communications, Quantum Networks, Non‑linear Optics, or Fiber Optics.
• Research Scientist/Engineer:
  • Master’s degree with 2+ years of experience in experimental/applied optics and a record of leadership in externally funded research, or a recent Ph.D. with original work in optics and demonstrated potential for leading funded programs.
  • Successful record in Experimental Quantum Optics, Quantum Communications, Quantum Networks, Non‑linear Optics, or Fiber Optics.

• Record of peer‑reviewed publications, patents, or conference presentations.
• Experience in developing innovative, externally funded research or development programs.
• Successful completion of research projects and documentation.
• Business development skills in research and development.
• Strong theoretical and technical writing skills.
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, Mathematica, LabVIEW.
• Hands‑on experimental research skills in electronics and optics.
• Technical project management experience.

This position involves working in a facility with controlled research restrictions; therefore, only U.S. citizens are eligible.

Montana State University is an equal‑opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.

• Resume
• Cover Letter