The postdoctoral researcher will conduct research and development in the area of photon sources for quantum communication over long-distance, free-space optical channels in support of the development of large-scale quantum networks. The postdoctoral researcher will help define and support laboratory and field experiments involving Bell-state measurements, teleportation, and quantum key distribution (QKD). The postdoctoral researcher will also analyze data, document research results, present findings at scientific conferences, and publish findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Experience is sought in the areas of 1) quantum sources including entangled photon sources and sub-Poissonian photon sources, 2) quantum entanglement and Bell-state measurements, 3) quantum entanglement distribution, teleportation, and QKD, and 4) quantum channels and quantum networks. A combination of laboratory and theoretical experience is desirable.

1. M. T. Gruneisen et al., “Modeling daytime sky access for a satellite quantum key distribution downlink,” Opt. Exp. 23(18), 23924 (2015)

2. M.T. Gruneisen et al., “Modeling satellite-Earth quantum channel downlinks with adaptive-optics coupling to single-mode fibers,” Opt Eng. 56(12) 126111 (2017)

3. Gruneisen, Mark T., et al. "Adaptive-optics-enabled quantum communication: A technique for daytime space-to-earth links." Physical Review Applied 16.1 (2021): 014067.

4. Lanning, R. Nicholas, et al. "Quantum communication over atmospheric channels: a framework for optimizing wavelength and filtering." Physical Review Applied 16.4 (2021): 044027.

5. Lafler, Randy, and R. Nicholas Lanning. "Optimal Polarization-Entanglement Source: Frequency-Converted SPDC with Degeneracy, Indistinguishability, and Ultrahigh Purity That is Configurable Over a Large Spectral Range." Physical Review Applied 17.6 (2022): 064014.

6. Lafler, Randy, and R. Nicholas Lanning. "Quantum Time Transfer: A Practical Method for Lossy and Noisy Channels." Physical Review Applied 20.2 (2023): 024064.

7. Lafler, Randy, et al., "Two-way quantum time transfer: a method for daytime space-Earth links." Phys. Rev. Applied 22 (2024): 024012.

key words

Quantum Communication, Quantum Entanglement, Entanglement Distribution, Entangled-Photon Sources, Quantum Teleportation, Quantum Networks, Quantum Key Distribution, Parametric Down Conversion

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.