Associate Research Physicist-AMSS(Strategic Science Initiative)

Overview

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate Physicist (Postdoctoral Researcher) to advance quantum technologies based on diamond color centers and microelectronics. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of materials science, quantum physics, and device engineering, focusing on the growth of single-crystal diamond, defect engineering (e.g., NV centers), plasma physics, and their characterization. This role involves hands-on experimental research, including CVD growth, molecular beam growth, nanofabrication, optical, electrical, and material characterization techniques, and plasma diagnostics techniques. The position offers the opportunity to collaborate within a highly interdisciplinary environment and contribute to cutting-edge research in quantum materials, sensing and microelectronics.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will leverage state-of-the-art plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition reactors to grow quantum and microelectronics grade diamond in dedicated laboratories at PPPL, collaborating with a team of scientists at PPPL and Princeton University. Advanced plasma, surface, and sample diagnostics will be deployed to characterize the impact of reactor and plasma parameters on diamond growth rates, crystalline structure, and vacancy distribution and density in the presence of various co-dopants. The candidate will also investigate diamond growth using molecular beams in ultra-high vacuum environment. Simulations of reactor operation and configuration is optional. This focused collaborative research direction could result in new diamond materials and devices with potential commercial applications.

Qualifications

Core Duties:

• Design and execute experiments for the growth of high-purity single-crystal diamond using chemical vapor deposition (CVD), with precise control of defect incorporation and electronic dopants for quantum applications (e.g., NV and related color centers).
• Design and execute experiments to investigate diamond growth in ultra-high vacuum environment.
• Develop and optimize fabrication processes for diamond-based quantum and photonic devices, including surface processing, patterning, and integration of microwave/optical structures.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams across materials science, quantum physics, and device engineering.
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences and internal meetings.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and contribute to a safe and efficient research environment.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. conferred within five years at the time of application
• Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments in a research environment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Highly desirable to have one or more of the following: Demonstrated expertise in CVD growth of single-crystal diamond, with emphasis on defect engineering for quantum (e.g., NV, SiV, or related color centers) and Microelectronics applications. Experience in nanofabrication, developing quantum, photonic structures and/or microelectronic devices. Hands-on experience with advanced characterization techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL), SEM, AFM, EPR, TEM, XPS, XRD and other relevant tools.
• Familiarity with Plasma Physics, Quantum devices, or Quantum information platforms based on solid-state defects is advantageous.
• Strong scientific communication skills, including peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
• Proven ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams spanning materials science, quantum physics, device engineering and plasma diagnostics.