THE POSITION
We are looking for highly motivated researchers to join the Quantum and Ultrafast Optoelectronics (QUO) Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), located on the beautiful island of Okinawa, Japan.
We currently have two openings for Postdoctoral Scholars. While the primary research areas for the positions are outlined below, we also welcome ambitious researchers from complementary backgrounds who are eager to explore and develop new scientific directions.
The QUO Unit works at the intersection of condensed matter physics, ultrafast and terahertz (THz) spectroscopy, materials science, and device engineering. We seek to understand how emergent quantum phenomena arise in low-dimensional materials, how they interact with light, and how these interactions can be harnessed to control quantum states and enable new forms of energy and information transport and conversion. Our approach combines the fabrication of 2D quantum materials and van der Waals devices with the development of THz microscopy and precision spectroscopy, while exploring their translation into quantum information science.
Postdoctoral Scholars will have opportunities to develop expertise across areas including 2D quantum materials, van der Waals device nanofabrication, quantum and qubit platforms, ultrafast microscopy, THz spectroscopy, microwave techniques, and antenna design/fabrication. OIST provides a highly interdisciplinary research environment with cutting-edge shared facilities and close interaction among researchers. The Unit will also support motivated Postdoctoral Scholars in preparing for future independent research careers through opportunities to pursue original research directions and build new collaborations.
We very much look forward to hearing from creative and ambitious early-career researchers.
Responsibilities
Postdoctoral Scholars in the Quantum and Ultrafast Optoelectronics Unit are expected to engage in creative, curiosity-driven, and independent research, while collaborating closely with the PI, other Unit members, and researchers within and outside OIST.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Conducting research in one or both of the following areas:
(i) THz spectroscopy of 2D quantum matter: Develop and apply ultrafast and terahertz spectroscopy to investigate low-energy excitations, light-driven quantum phenomena, and related dynamics in quantum materials and van der Waals devices.
(ii) Designer quantum materials and devices: Design and fabricate vdW heterostructures and nanodevices, and investigate their electronic, optical, and quantum properties using optical, transport, and complementary characterization techniques.
Communicating effectively and building collaborations with Unit members, researchers across OIST, and external collaborators.
Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting results at national and international conferences.
Contributing to the collaborative research environment of the Unit and at OIST, including scientific discussions and mentoring of students where appropriate.
Qualifications
Required
Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, or a closely related field
Strong research background in one or more areas relevant to the Unit: e.g., condensed matter physics, quantum science, nanofabrication, spectroscopy, or related fields
Proven track record of research achievement
Effective written and oral communication skills in English
Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively with Unit members and external collaborators
Preferred
Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable but not required:
van der Waals heterostructure or device fabrication; nanofabrication; quantum devices or qubit platforms (e.g., superconducting, spin, or defect based systems); ultrafast spectroscopy, microscopy; THz spectroscopy; microwave or high-frequency techniques; antenna, resonator, or cavity design and fabrication
Candidates whose backgrounds complement these areas and who are strongly motivated to learn new techniques are also encouraged to apply.
Starting Date:
As early as possible after January 1, 2027.
