Employment Opportunities

Job Description

The Silicon Quantum Technology research group at Simon Fraser University is looking for highly skilled and motivated research technicians to join our team in developing groundbreaking photonic quantum processors and networks. We study silicon spin qubits and emitters for distributed, modular quantum technologies. This work combines the exploration of new physics with engineering practical quantum technology prototypes. The successful candidate will work on optically networked spin qubits, controlled by coherent optical and microwave pulses, and integrated with silicon photonics including optical resonators, switches and detectors in a cryogenically cooled environment.

The candidate is expected to contribute to our research, including building and operating helium cryostats and dilution fridges, designing and troubleshooting electronics, configuring lasers and custom optics, maintaining experimental control software, server management, and task automation.

For enquiries and details about the position, please contact Prof. Daniel Higginbottom at daniel_higginbottom@sfu.ca. Applicants should send a cover letter, CV, and the contact details of at least two references. Applications will be evaluated immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

This is full-time, grant-funded position for an initial contract period of one year, renewable for an additional three years, at a starting salary rate of $75K CAD p.a. plus benefits (https://www.sfu.ca/human-resources/research-employees/benefits-for-RAs-and-PDFs.html). This position will report directly to the project PI.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers to design and construct experiments and apparatus.
• Operate specialized equipment, such as lasers, optical detectors, cryogenic systems, and quantum control hardware.
• Troubleshoot technical issues that arise during experiments and implement appropriate solutions.
• Write and maintain experimental control software.
• Support research information infrastructure including servers, databases, lab telemetry and websites.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in physics or engineering with courses or formal training in electronics/electrical technology, computing systems and programming, mechanical systems, chemical handling or the use of machine tools and related equipment.
• Good knowledge of physics and ability to apply this knowledge for problem solving in the lab.
• Proficiency with laboratory equipment, optical components, and electronics.
• Familiarity with Python programming in a scientific environment.
• Fast learner, able to work independently.
  

Nice to have

• Experience in a quantum physics or technology research environment.
• Experience with cryogenics and/or high vacuum systems.
• Experience with microwave or RF engineering.
• Familiarity with concepts related to spin qubits, quantum optics, and quantum information processing.
• Familiarity with cleanroom practices and nanofabrication techniques.
• Integrated photonic simulation and design.
• Workshop and machining skills.

What we offer

• Training in a leading research group at the cutting edge of quantum information technology.
• Hands-on experience with advanced experimental tools.
• Engaged and ambitious colleagues with a creative, international and welcoming work environment.
• Dynamic and challenging projects.
• Opportunities to collaborate with industry partners.

There are no Sessional Instructor (SI) postings in Physics for the upcoming term.

The Department of Physics' normal posting dates and timelines for Sessional Instructor postings are as follows:

• Fall term (September to December): Positions posted by June 15th
• Spring term (January to April): Positions posted by October 15th
• Summer term (May to August): Positions posted by February 15th

Sessional instructor postings and policies can be found here.

Please visit SFU's central posting site for TA postings, application procedures, and related information.

PHYSICS DEPARTMENT – TEACHING ASSISTANT (TA) HIRING PRIORITIES (23 JUNE 2016)

Priority for appointment/reappointment as a Teaching Assistant is in accordance with Article XIII of the Collective Agreement with the Teaching Support Staff Union (TSSU).

In allocating Teaching Assistant positions, the department will also take into account the following:

• Amount of financial support offered on admission to the graduate program;
• Suitability for particular courses (e.g. discipline of prior degree(s), publications, experience);
• Applicant’s preferences.

If an assignment within a priority group requires a selection between applicants, the graduate student without financial support from merit based scholarships or merit based fellowships during the semester of appointment with a value equal to at least a 5.17 appointment, will have priority for the appointment.