Researcher in Physics

Syracuse University

Institution: Syracuse University
Location: Syracuse, NY (On-campus)
Salary Range: $62,400 – $70,000
Job Type: Full-time, Postdoc
Posting Date: September 29, 2025
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Quick Link: https://www.sujobopps.com/postings/111095


Position Overview

The Quantum Sensing and Rare-Event Detection Group in the Department of Physics at Syracuse University, led by Prof. Caleb Fink, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in quantum device physics for applications in fundamental particle physics and quantum information science (QIS).

The successful candidate will participate in a research program focused on design, fabrication, and characterization of superconducting quantum devices for dark matter and neutrino detectors, including:

  • Development of cavity-coupled Cooper-pair transistor (cCPT)–based charge amplifiers for sub-electron sensitivity.

  • Continued development of SQUAT devices for novel sensing applications (arXiv:2310.01345).

  • Collaboration on SPLENDOR, a modular narrow-gap semiconductor detector platform (arXiv:2507.17782, arXiv:2311.02229).

  • Related projects at the interface of quantum sensing, condensed matter physics, and astroparticle physics.

The position offers collaboration with Stanford/SLAC, national labs, and other universities, with travel for joint experiments and integration into the Syracuse Institute for Quantum and Information Science.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (within past 5 years).

  • Experience in at least one of: superconducting device physics, cryogenic measurements, quantum sensing, solid-state detectors, RF/microwave systems, dark matter detection, neutrino physics, or cosmology.

  • Strong interest in fundamental particle physics and quantum device science.

  • Ability to work collaboratively across institutions.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experimental research in low-temperature physics, quantum devices, or particle detector instrumentation.

  • Experience with microwave electronics, device modeling, or nanofabrication.


Responsibilities

  • Conceive, design, and conduct experiments on superconducting sensors and related devices.

  • Perform data analysis, simulations, and publication of results.

  • Supervise graduate and undergraduate students in the group.

  • Collaborate with external teams at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory.

  • Participate in joint meetings and occasional travel for experimental campaigns.


Application Instructions

Applicants should submit:

  • Curriculum Vitae with publication list

  • Cover Letter describing qualifications and research interests

  • Contact information for 3 references

Optional: Research statement or other supporting documents.


About Syracuse University

  • Private, international research university with 13 schools and colleges.

  • Over 15,000 undergraduates and 6,000 graduate students.

  • Offers over 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs.

  • Location: central New York State, 250 miles northwest of NYC.

For more information: http://www.syracuse.edu


Equal Opportunity & Community Commitment

  • Syracuse University is equal opportunity, committed to diversity and inclusion.

  • Policies prohibit discrimination based on race, sex, gender identity, disability, veteran status, and other protected categories.

  • Strong focus on supporting veterans and cultivating a respectful, inclusive campus environment.