Postdoctoral Associate or Research Associate

Postdoctoral Scholar PositionNIST is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to conduct experimental and theoretical research on Rydberg atom containing vapor cells, interactions between alkali metals and vapor cell materials, and photonics integration for applications in radio frequency (RF) communications and quantum sensing. The researcher will focus on improving the sensor head in Rydberg atom-based sensors, specifically the containment package of alkali Rydberg atoms and electromagnetic field propagation through and interaction with that package. Experimental responsibilities may include designing, building, and troubleshooting lasers, optical, electronic, RF, and vacuum systems, designing and fabricating novel vapor cells, operating SEM, AFM, and Xray tools for surface studies, designing and integrating photonic devices, and developing software for data acquisition and analysis. The candidate will also be expected to understand how to develop and analyze atomic models of Rydberg systems and light-mater interaction models as well as conduct electromagnetic simulations. This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. PREP is a special partnership between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the University of Colorado Boulder. PREP provides research opportunities to CU undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in NIST labs to gain research experience alongside NIST scientists. The particular group that needs a researcher is the Electromagnetics Fields Group at NIST.What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be: Design and perform experiments to advance our understanding of and performance of vapor cell packages for Rydberg atom sensors. Develop theoretical models of atomic systems, atomic sensors, light matter interactions, and compare these with experimental measurements. Keep a well-maintained log of experimental activities. Disseminate research through peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and other presentations. What You Should Know: This position requires the successful completion of an NAIS agreement and federal security clearance as mandated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Employment is contingent upon approval of these requirements as determined by NIST.Anticipated start date is December 1, 2026. Anticipated end date is March 31, 2028.

To apply, please submit the following materials: Resume or CV Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position. If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources Department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version as an optional attachment. During the application process, you will need to enter contact information for a reference. We will request the letter of recommendation immediately following your application. Review of applications will begin immediately and remain open until October 30, 2026.