Postbac Research Scholar, Experimental AMO Physics

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Job Summary The Darkwah-Oppong Lab in the Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy seeks a Postbaccalaureate Research Scholar to join an experimental Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics laboratory focused on quantum science with neutral atoms. The group builds and operates optical tweezer arrays of individually trapped, laser-cooled neutral atoms to study quantum simulation, quantum metrology, and many-body physics. The successful candidate will contribute to the construction, operation, and improvement of an ultra-high-vacuum cold-atom apparatus, including laser and optical systems, high-resolution imaging, and the control and data-acquisition software used to prepare, manipulate, and measure atomic quantum states.

This is a hands-on, full-cycle research role intended to prepare the candidate for a PhD program in experimental quantum physics. The Research Scholar will work closely with the faculty sponsor, postdoctoral scholars, and graduate students, taking ownership of well-defined subprojects spanning hardware (lasers, optics, electronics, vacuum) and software (experimental control, simulation, and data analysis). The position offers broad training in the experimental and computational methods underlying modern quantum technology.

Essential

Job Duties Design, assemble, align, and maintain optical and laser systems (e.g., laser cooling/trapping beams, optical tweezers generated with acousto-optic deflectors/spatial light modulators, and high-resolution imaging optics). Operate and improve an ultra-high-vacuum neutral-atom apparatus, including assembly and troubleshooting of vacuum, optical, electronic, and RF/microwave subsystems. Develop, test, and document experimental control software, data-acquisition routines, and automated calibration sequences (primarily in Python).

Perform numerical simulations and modeling of atomic and many-body systems to support experimental design and interpretation (e.g., lattice/tweezer trapping, single-particle and many-body dynamics). Collect, analyze, and visualize experimental data; apply statistical and computational methods to extract physical quantities and characterize system performance. Contribute to the design and fabrication of custom electronics, mechanical mounts, and printed-circuit boards as needed. Maintain detailed electronic lab notebooks and contribute to manuscripts, internal documentation, and group presentations.

Follow all laboratory and laser-safety protocols and contribute to general upkeep of the laboratory. Occasionally lift and/or carry equipment weighing 25 pounds or more (e.g., optical components, breadboards, vacuum hardware, electronics racks). Occasional travel may be required to attend conferences, collaboration meetings, or training. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, or a closely related field by the position start date.

Coursework in atomic, molecular, and optical physics and/or quantum mechanics. Demonstrated research experience in experimental and/or computational physics. Programming proficiency in Python (or equivalent) for simulation, data analysis, and instrument control. Strong quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and careful record-keeping. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment. Ability to travel as needed for conferences and collaboration meetings.

Preferred Qualifications Coursework or research experience in quantum simulation, quantum metrology, condensed matter, or many-body physics. Hands-on experience with laser-cooled atoms, optical lattices, ultracold atomic gases, or other AMO experimental platforms.

Experience with optical alignment, lasers, vacuum systems, RF/microwave electronics, or FPGA-based control hardware.

Experience with numerical methods and large-scale simulation. Intent to pursue a PhD in experimental AMO or quantum physics. Required Documents CV.