Staff Scientist

Department PME Argonne

About the Department

The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME; was established in May 2019 and evolved from the Institute for Molecular Engineering, which was founded in 2011. The PME integrates science and engineering to address global challenges from the molecular level up. The PME’s rigorous academic and research programs are made possible through the University of Chicago’s unique partnership with Argonne National Laboratory. The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering is the first new school at the University of Chicago in three decades and the first school in the nation dedicated to molecular engineering. In the next phase of growth as a School, the PME will continue to expand its team of world-class faculty researchers and empower students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate with faculty in cutting-edge facilities. The PME aims to bring solutions for urgent societal problems to the forefront, while training the next generation of scientific leaders and entrepreneurs.

Job Summary

The PME is seeking a Staff Scientist to lead research on superconducting quantum devices and quantum networks in the Han Lab. The Han Lab specializes in experimental studies of quantum devices, with a research focus on the fundamental science behind the development of micro- and nanoscale systems with the goal of achieving unprecedented control in the fabrication, integration, and manipulation of quantum phenomena in photons and solid-state materials. The Staff Scientist will support research that is relevant to applications involving nanofabrication and the fundamental science of quantum devices and systems. Typical projects include: (i) design and fabrication of superconducting qubits and quantum circuits, (ii) development of single-electron qubits, and (iii) low-temperature and quantum network experiments. The ideal candidate will closely partner with the faculty to plan, oversee, and execute all aspects of the project, including identifying the need for innovation and developing or incorporating advances in research concepts to help disseminate the results of research projects. In addition, the role will include student supervision.

Responsibilities

• Facilitates and promotes advanced technical/scientific research projects, including research on nanoscale systems. Recognizes the need for innovation and develops or incorporates advances in research concepts to help disseminate results.
• Collaborates and coordinates with other researchers in the group in joint research efforts.
• Builds relationships crucial to the success of the lab, PME, and UChicago.
• Manages complex data sets for research.
• Trains new laboratory personnel.
• Collaborates closely with the research team to disseminate research methods to support or advance their research.
• Collaborates on the development of new research projects.
• Reviews laboratory protocols and training on new techniques. Manage complex data sets for research.
• Leads the contributions to scientific writing and publications, including protocols and grants.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Doctoral degree with an established track record in physics, materials science, quantum engineering, or related field.

Experience:

• Postdoc experience, a minimum of three years of significant work experience after the doctorate.
• Possess experience in nanofabrication in a clean room.
• Background in experimental low-temperature physics and superconducting devices.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Strong computer programming and instrumentation interface skills in Python and Matlab programming languages.
• Strong computer skills, including calendaring, document management, such as Dropbox and Box, etc., word processing, database management, and spreadsheet skills.
• Knowledge of simulation and computer-aided design software.
• Familiarity with manuscript drafting, editing and review.
• Familiarity with report writing/submission.

Preferred Competencies

• Demonstrated problem-solving, organization and coordination skills.
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent time management skills and handle multiple, concurrent tasks within deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Prioritize urgent tasks while ensuring established deadlines are met.
• Flexible and adaptable to changes in workflow and procedures.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Research Statement/Cover Letter (required)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$70,000.00 - $80,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in theBenefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call View phone number on click.appcast.io or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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