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Postdoctoral Associate
  • Job Number: 24330
  • Functional Area: Research - Scientific
  • Department: Kavli Inst for Astrophysics & Space Rsrch
  • School Area: Science
  • Employment Type: Full-Time Temporary
  • Employment Category: Exempt
  • Visa Sponsorship Available: Yes
  • Schedule:


Job Description

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Science (MKI), to work in the MIT Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) laboratory, applying techniques from quantum optics to problems in precision measurement, fundamental physics, and gravitational wave detection.  Will join the GRAVITES experiment, a collaboration between LIGO and the University of Vienna aiming to study the effects of gravity on quantum states of light by combining the strengths of the two groups--precision interferometry and quantum optics with single photon sources and detectors.  The immediate goal is developing a tabletop low-noise interferometer to measure the gravitational phase shift of a single photon across a two-meter height difference. There will also be opportunities to participate in an ongoing effort to use squeezed light to improve the sensitivity of the Advanced LIGO gravitational wave detectors.  Responsibilities will include carrying out original research, mentoring students at the graduate and undergraduate level, facilitating collaboration with international partners, travel to the LIGO sites and collaborating institutions, and other duties as needed. 

Job Requirements

REQUIRED:  Ph.D. in physics or a related field; strong background in experimental laboratory-based science; and experience in several of the following areas--designing and building experimental apparatuses, free space and fiber optics, precision interferometry, quantum optics, analog and digital controls, low noise electronics, simulation and modeling, finite element modeling, and computer programming.  Job #24330

This position has a tentative start date of Jan 1, 2025.  The appointment will last for two-years with the possibility of renewal contingent on performance and availability of funding.

Review of applicants will begin September 15, 2024, until the position has been filled.

Application materials should include a cover letter (preferred but not required), CV, a complete list of publications, and three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation can be sent to Ms. Shannon McGinnes at shannonk@mit.edu.

8/16/24