NRL's Quantum Optics section is studying quantum networking through a variety of experimental research efforts, including the development of foundational technologies such as quantum memory [1] and quantum frequency conversion [2]. We also conduct basic research on collective light-matter interactions, focusing particularly on neutral atomic gases [3] and rare-earth-ion-doped crystals. Additionally, in collaboration with other government research agencies, we are developing and characterizing a metropolitan-scale quantum networking testbed based on deployed dark fiber [4]. We are open to other related research topics, including research on applications such as secure communication and distributed sensing or timekeeping based on quantum networks.

[1] Bashkansky, M., Black, A.T., Kwolek, J.M. and Kuzmich, A., 2021. Quantum Memory. Wiley Encyclopedia of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, pp.1-17.

[2] Piotrowicz, M.J., Black, A.T. and Bashkansky, M., 2020, May. Conversion from Telecom to Atomic Photons by Four-Wave Mixing in a Warm Rb Cell. In 2020 Conference on Lasers and Electro-Optics (CLEO) (pp. 1-2). IEEE.

[3] Black, A.T., Pruessner, M.W., Park, D., Fancher, C.T., Kozak, D.A., Mahon, R., Bashkansky, M., Fatemi, F.K. and Stievater, T.H., 2018, May. A hybrid nanophotonic-magnetic chip-based atom trap. In CLEO: QELS_Fundamental Science (pp. FM2H-4). Optica Publishing Group.

[4] McKenzie, W., Richards, A.M., Patel, S., Gerrits, T., Akin, T.G., Peil, S., Black, A.T., Tulchinsky, D., Hastings, A., Li-Baboud, Y.S. and Rahmouni, A., 2024. Clock synchronization characterization of the Washington DC metropolitan quantum network (DC-QNet). Applied Physics Letters, 125(16).

key words

quantum networking; cold atoms; rare earth ions; quantum memory; quantum repeaters; quantum information; quantum communication; entanglement; quantum sensors; atomic clocks

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral 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.