Quantum Optics Communication Engineer-Technical Staff

The Optical and Quantum Communication Group develops impactful quantum and classical technologies and system prototypes for use in a wide range of challenging applications in terrestrial, space and underwater environments.  Primary areas of research include the development of novel entangled-photon source technologies and quantum memory systems; novel quantum link architectures; sensitive single-photon receivers; novel modulation and coding approaches; multi-format laser-comm modems; robust and compact free-space optical beam directors; and precision beam pointing, link acquisition and tracking systems. The group is leveraging these technologies for use in prototype systems that are deployed in the field to inform next-generation quantum and classical optical system capabilities.  Examples of near-term field tests include terabit-per-second direct-to-Earth small-satellite constellations, near-Earth wideband relay laser communication terminal hardware for space and ground terminal use, and next-generation beam-director prototypes that are inherently scalable to deep-space optical comm systems, and quantum state transfer across a regional quantum network testbed. Position Description The Optical & Quantum Communications Technology Group is seeking a full-time Quantum Optics Communication Engineer to support programs targeting development of entanglement-based quantum communication network architectures and applications including, for example, distributed sensing and interconnected parallel quantum computing. The successful candidate should be proficient with quantum optical theory and have some familiarity with the experimental implementations and the practical limitations of quantum optical systems. The candidate should be able to analyze architectures for entanglement distribution, including: 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. Strongly desired is the ability to conduct information-theoretic communication system analysis with the goal of developing system architecture and design concepts to provide enhanced communications connectivity, bandwidth and performance. It is also desirable for the successful candidate to engage in proof-of-concept hardware or software demonstrations to validate new system capabilities and technology. Finally, familiarity with fiber-optics, integrated photonics, and free-space optical channels is desired. Minimum Qualifications Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics Strong mathematical foundation and experience with quantum optics theory Experience working in a quantum optics group performing communications theory, information theory or signal processing analysis Experience with entanglement-based communications, sensing and computing applications and quantum network architectures Experience with state…