Senior Scientist - Cryogenic Detector Metrology (Hybrid)
Senior Scientist - Cryogenic Detector Metrology (Hybrid)
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Job Description
At Xanadu we are learners innovators researchers collaborators and problem solvers. We are creating something that has never been built before. What we are doing is extremely hard the classic moon shot. Few people in their life will be able to be a part of something like this where if we are successful the technologies we develop will solve some of the worlds most challenging problems and literally change the world. And that is something to be excited about!
Your role and responsibilities:
As a Senior Scientist specializing in cryogenic detector metrology you will contribute your expertise in cryogenics and precision measurement to further the performance and scalability of our transition edge sensor (TES) platform. As part of the Low Temperature Devices team you will take ownership of the development implementation and deployment of an ultra-high-accuracy system detection efficiency (SDE) metrology capability for our TES-based photon-number-resolving detectors.
You will be responsible for designing and validating a near-infrared metrology system that sets new standards in stability repeatability and accuracy. This includes full system optimization including component selection control monitoring data analysis and integration within our cryogenic detector infrastructure.
This role demands deep experience with milli-Kelvin cryogenic systems exceptional attention to detail and a strong foundation in detector physics and optical metrology. You will ensure that our SDE measurements are not only accurate but scalable and production-ready. Responsibilities include:
- Lead the implementation of an ultra-high-accuracy metrology system for measuring TES system detection efficiency at near-infrared wavelengths
- Independently operate and maintain milli-Kelvin cryostats (dilution refrigerators).
- Integrate and operate a cryogenic radiometer as an optical power reference standard
- Perform detailed cryostat-based TES characterization to validate performance repeatability and long-term stability of SDE measurements
- Identify and resolve subtle system-level effects that influence detection efficiency such as thermal drifts and background noise suppression
- Prototype and optimize precision optical layouts mounts and calibration methods suitable for cryogenic environments
- Define measurement protocols and statistical analysis pipelines to support rigorous validation of large-scale detector array performance
- Interface with internal teams and external collaborators
- Contribute to pushing the state-of-the-art in precision measurement for single-photon detectors
Basic qualifications and experience:
- PhD in Physics Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or a related field with at least 2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience
- Extensive hands-on experience with milli-Kelvin cryostats (preferably dilution refrigerators) including cooldown troubleshooting and maintenance
- Proven track record in high-precision measurement metrology or detector calibration
- Familiarity with TES MKID SNSPD or other cryogenic detector technologies
- Extreme attention to detail and a systematic approach to experimentation with a focus on minimizing both systematic and statistical errors essential qualities for high-precision metrology.
- Experience with analog test equipment (e.g. SMU VNA photodetectors)
- Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
- Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively on multidisciplinary hardware projects in a dynamic environment
Preferred qualifications and experience:
- Experience with Python-based lab automation or data acquisition
- CAD and simulation experience for optical thermal or mechanical design (e.g. SolidWorks COMSOL Zemax)
- Familiarity with fiber-coupled optical systems
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Required Experience:
Manager
Employment Type
Full-Time
