Research Experimental Physicist

SRI International has an immediate opening for a Research Experimental Physicist within the Advanced Technology and Systems Division (ATSD). The researcher will support the development and application of state-of-art quantum sensing systems on-site in Princeton, NJ.

The researcher will be part of a team of applied physicists and engineers working on R&D projects from design and development to field testing of advanced prototype systems for government and commercial customers. The successful candidate will contribute to current programs and grow into a project task leader and Principal Investigator (PI). A curious nature with ability to investigate issues independently and proactively, would integrate with our culture.

ATSD conducts innovative research and development in a wide range of disciplines spanning advanced optical, quantum, radar, and imaging systems, transitioning technology from basic R&D to fieldable prototypes. Candidates will have the opportunity to work on programs outside their main expertise and contribute to innovations at all levels of the development process.

Development, characterization, and troubleshooting of advanced quantum sensors to state-of-art performance, driving new innovations and technical advancements
• Implementation of quantum sensing systems in non-laboratory environments
• Support overall system design and integration (mechanical, firmware, software, data analysis)
• Detailed electromagnetic simulation and analysis
• Design and implementation of custom optical assemblies for compact sensors
• Field testing and measurement (travel may be required)
• Participate in brainstorming and problem-solving sessions, contributing fresh ideas and perspectives to drive the success of team projects

• PhD in experimental physics, electrical engineering, applied physics, engineering physics, or related discipline, required, with post-degree experience a plus
• Demonstrated ability to develop both hardware and software in an R&D context
• Due to government requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Desirable skills and experience:

• Fundamental noise-limited measurements
• Complex experimental setups (e.g. laser systems, optics, vacuum systems, RF, electronics)
• Neutral-atom quantum systems
• Numerical and analytical modeling (e.g. COMSOL)
• Data acquisition, control systems, and signal processing (e.g. Python, MATLAB, C++)

Intangibles

• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, results-driven
• Creatively think of new ideas and articulate into proposals
• Commitment to delivering high-quality work and advancing research and development efforts in a fast-paced and ever-evolving environment
• Strong communication skills, comfortable collaborating and sharing knowledge with colleagues and stakeholders across various functions
• Ability to review technical work of others and provide actionable feedback
• Interest in a broad range of technical areas
• Ability to manage multiple priorities

The salary range is: $101,592-$134,613. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/.

SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.