Quantum Optics Communication Engineer-Technical Staff

Overview

The Optical and Quantum Communication Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory develops quantum and classical communication technologies for use in terrestrial, space, and underwater environments. The group focuses on entangled-photon sources, quantum memories, quantum link architectures, single-photon receivers, modulation and coding, laser‑comm modems, free‑space optical beam directors, and beam‑pointing, link acquisition, and tracking systems. Projects include terabit‑per‑second direct‑to‑Earth small‑satellite constellations, wideband relay laser communication terminals, and quantum state‑transfer across regional testbeds.

The Optical & Quantum Communications Technology Group seeks a full‑time Quantum Optics Communication Engineer to support programs that develop entanglement‑based quantum communication network architectures for applications such as distributed sensing and interconnected quantum computing. The engineer will analyze architectures for entanglement distribution—entanglement generation, Bell‑state measurements, quantum memories with photonic interfaces (e.g., diamond defect‑center based memories), qubit transduction, entanglement distillation, and interconnected quantum processors.

Preferred candidates can conduct information‑theoretic communication system analysis to propose architecture and design concepts that improve connectivity, bandwidth, and performance. Demonstrating proof‑of‑concept hardware or software for new capabilities is also desirable. Familiarity with fiber‑optics, integrated photonics, and free‑space optical channels is desired.

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics
• Strong mathematical foundation and experience with quantum optics theory
• Experience performing communications theory, information theory, or signal‑processing analysis in a quantum optics group
• Experience with entanglement‑based communications, sensing, computing applications, and quantum network architectures
• Experience with state teleportation, fidelity analysis, and entanglement distillation
• Basic concepts of quantum computing
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Willingness to work in a team environment

Recent Graduate Range: $145,200 – $170,000

Experienced Range: $145,200 – $220,000

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT‑funded pension
• Matching 401(k)
• Paid leave (vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work‑life balance options
• … and much more

The selected candidate will undergo a pre‑employment background investigation and must obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required. The field of study for the candidate should pertain to quantum optical communications.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information.

42740

Lexington, MA, US