Senior Research Associate

Summary

Job Summary

The Quantum Sensors Division at the University of Colorado (CU) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) seeks a Senior Research Associate to (a) lead our data analysis efforts for gamma-ray microcalorimeter spectrometers, (b) plan and lead measurement campaigns using these spectrometers (c) assist in efforts to perform Monte Carlo modelling of microcalorimeters. These efforts will be focused on spectrometers for electromagnetic radiation and particles at energies of 20 keV and above, but may cover other energy ranges. Key goals are to realize data analysis pipelines that can be used by inexperienced end-users, carry out analysis for critical measurement campaigns, and assist collaborators in their data analysis efforts. Successful applicants may serve as Principal Investigators on projects that focus on data analysis efforts; lead efforts to seek new applications for these sensors; and both lead and participate in efforts to obtain new funding opportunities.

The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The position is within the Quantum Sensors Division [ https://www.nist.gov/pml/quantum-sensors ], a joint collaboration between NIST and CU. The Quantum Sensors Division advances the detection of photons and particles in a variety of application areas using superconducting sensors and readout electronics.

Responsibilities

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Senior Research Associates are expected to lead both independent research and/or research teams. They plan and carry out difficult and complex assignments in a scientific, engineering, mathematics or information technology discipline and develop new methods, approaches, and procedures usually in cooperation with coworkers related to this position.
• Lead the design of methods for the acquisition, storage, and analysis of data for arrays of cryogenic microcalorimeters.
• Lead the implementation of these methods, creating software “pipelines” that will be used bother by other members of the Quantum Sensors Division.
• Assist in developing microcalorimeter spectrometers built from cryogenic sensor arrays and implement them in measurement applications in the basic and applied sciences.
• Mentor postdoctoral and other early career researchers in the Quantum Sensors Division.
• Application areas presently of interest include nuclear materials analysis, gamma-ray astrophysics, x-ray fundamental parameters metrology, spectroscopy of exotic atoms, studying the terrestrial and cosmic background for quantum information and exploring fundamental symmetries in nuclear physics.
• Carry out “Monte Carlo particle transport” modelling of microcalorimeter detectors and system, and assist collaborators in their efforts to carry out their own modelling efforts.
• Interact with collaborators on the operation and application of cryogenic sensor instruments and the analysis of microcalorimeter data.
• Develop new applications for cryogenic microcalorimeter sensors as well as pursue both internal and external funding, including leading proposals and serving as PI on successful proposals.
• Regularly communicate work status to group members and disseminate results through internal and external publications and presentations. Interact with internal and external collaborators.
• Disseminate results through publications and presentations.
  
  

What We Can Offer

The salary range for this position is $170,000 - $200,000 annually.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits , including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder .

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• PhD degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Material Science, or related field.
• 15 years of research experience, including 5 years of working with microcalorimeter spectrometers and 10 years working on analysis of microcalorimeter data.
  
  

Special Instructions

To Apply, Please Submit The Following Materials

• Resume or CV
• Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position.
  
  

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version as an optional attachment.

During the application process you will need to enter contact information for a reference. We will request a letter of recommendation and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses.

Review of applications will begin immediately and remain open until March 4th, 2025.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.