Staff Scientist PIC Laser

Responsibilities

• Develop custom laser systems from fiber-based oscillators to integrated chip-scale architectures
• Design and simulate PIC layouts optimized for high-Q micro-resonators and dispersion-engineered nonlinear optics
• Architect the migration of frequency combs and low-noise systems from discrete components to PIC platforms
• Build and characterize conventional systems including fiber spooling and MOPA configurations
• Perform rigorous characterization of frequency noise, phase noise, and Allan deviation
• Develop testing protocols for stabilization architectures including PDH locking
• Partner with hardware teams to integrate laser systems into atomic clocks and quantum timing sensors

Requirements

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of professional experience with ultra-stable cavities, frequency combs, or atomic clocks
• Hands-on experience measuring RIN, frequency noise, and phase noise
• Experience with supercontinuum generation or SHG
• Proficiency in fiber fusion splicing and high-tolerance free-space assembly
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or refugee/asylee for export control compliance

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in Lumerical (FDTD/MODE) or COMSOL
• Deep understanding of mode-locked lasers and fceo-detection
• Experience with SiN, Thin-Film Lithium Niobate, or Tantala
• Understanding of PID control loops and high-bandwidth feedback
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for optical characterization
• Experience with high-efficiency laser-to-chip integration

Benefits

• Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
• Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employer 401(k) contributions
• 20 days of paid time off and 11 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Fully stocked kitchen

About the Company

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications.