Postdoctoral Associate, Experimental Quantum Science and Quantum Sensing

Position Title
Postdoctoral Associate, Experimental Quantum Science and Quantum Sensing
Classification Title
Postdoctoral Associate
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Position Type
Research Foundation Professional
Job Type
Full-Time
Position Summary
The Chand Lab in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University at Buffalo (UB) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate in Experimental Quantum Science and Quantum Sensing.
Our research focuses on developing scalable, multiplexed quantum-sensing platforms based on solid-state spin qubits, particularly nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond. We are developing next-generation experimental platforms that combine optical microscopy, microwave and radio-frequency (RF) control, spatially selective optical addressing using acousto-optic deflectors (AODs), spatial light modulators (SLMs), and digital micromirror devices (DMDs), advanced quantum-control protocols, high-sensitivity imaging, and automated measurement and feedback.
A major goal is to scale quantum experiments from hundreds toward thousands of individually controlled quantum sensors, with a long-term objective of developing platforms approaching 10,000 qubits and applying these capabilities to the study of quantum materials and quantum devices.
Research directions include multiplexed quantum sensing, covariance- and correlation-based magnetometry, correlated quantum-noise spectroscopy, quantum sensing of materials and devices, nanoscale magnetic sensing, and AI-assisted large-scale quantum sensing and computational measurement approaches.
The successful candidate will have substantial flexibility to help shape new research directions while contributing to the development of a next-generation experimental quantum-sensing laboratory at UB.
Specific responsibilities may include:
• Design, construction, and operation of advanced optical and quantum-sensing experiments.
• Development of multiplexed NV-center measurement and control techniques.
• Implementation and integration of laser, microwave, RF, imaging, timing, and experimental-control systems.
• Development of optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR), coherent spin-control, coherence, dynamical-decoupling, correlation-spectroscopy, and related quantum-sensing protocols.
• Development of confocal and/or wide-field optical microscopy systems for quantum sensing.
• Integration of AODs, SLMs, DMDs, electron-multiplying charge-coupled-device (EMCCD) cameras, scientific cameras, and other imaging and spatial-control technologies.
• Development and implementation of microwave and RF control, including in-phase/quadrature (IQ) modulation, pulse sequencing, and multi-tone control.
• Development of software for experimental automation, data acquisition, image processing, quantitative analysis, real-time feedback, and large-scale measurements.
• Investigation of quantum materials, magnetic systems, correlated spin dynamics, and noise using solid-state quantum sensors.
• Development of new quantum-sensing and computational measurement approaches.
• Analysis and interpretation of experimental data and preparation of manuscripts and scientific presentations.
• Collaboration with graduate and undergraduate students, faculty, and external research partners.
• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate researchers and contributing to the development and operation of the laboratory.
The position provides opportunities to develop independent research directions, mentor students, participate in interdisciplinary collaborations, contribute to publications and research proposals, and help establish new experimental capabilities within the Chand Lab.
Minimum Qualifications
• PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Quantum Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field by the appointment start date.
• Experimental research experience in at least one relevant area, such as optics/photonics, atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics, quantum sensing, quantum optics, spin physics, condensed-matter experiments, experimental quantum information, or related areas.
• Experience with laboratory instrumentation, data acquisition, and quantitative data analysis.
• Ability to independently develop, operate, troubleshoot, and improve experimental systems.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable but not required:
• Nitrogen-vacancy centers, color centers, or other solid-state spin qubits.
• Optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR), electron spin resonance/electron paramagnetic resonance (ESR/EPR), magnetic resonance, or coherent spin control.
• Quantum sensing or nanoscale magnetometry.
• Quantum optics or atomic, molecular, and optical physics.
• Confocal or wide-field optical microscopy.
• EMCCD, scientific CMOS (sCMOS), or other scientific imaging systems.
• Laser and optical-system design, alignment, and stabilization.
• Acousto-optic deflectors (AODs), spatial light modulators (SLMs), digital micromirror devices (DMDs), or related spatial optical-control technologies.
• Microwave and RF electronics, IQ modulation, and coherent control.
• Arbitrary waveform generators (AWGs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), pulse-sequencing systems, or real-time experimental-control hardware.
• Cryogenic experimental systems.
• Quantum materials, magnetic materials, or condensed-matter experiments.
• Python-based experimental control, automation, and data analysis.
• Image processing and analysis of large experimental datasets.
• Machine learning, Bayesian optimization, adaptive measurement, or AI-assisted scientific experimentation.
Candidates with strong experimental backgrounds in adjacent areas who are interested in transitioning into scalable quantum experiments are strongly encouraged to apply. Prior experience with NV centers is not required.
Work Hours
Full-time.
Campus
University at Buffalo, North Campus
Salary Range
$60,000 per year, commensurate with experience and in accordance with University at Buffalo and Research Foundation policies.
Appointment
The initial appointment is expected to be for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year contingent upon satisfactory performance and availability of funding.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants should submit:
• Cover letter describing research experience and interests.
• Curriculum vitae, including a publication list.
• Contact information for three professional references.
In the cover letter, applicants are encouraged to briefly describe how their previous research experience could contribute to one or more research directions of the Chand Lab.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
The anticipated start date is Spring 2027, with flexibility through August 2027.
An institutional UB-hosted version is also available at https://chandlab.eng.buffalo.edu/.
References
Number of references required: 3