"Postdoctoral Fellow (Physics & Astronomy)"

Job Description

Amherst College invites applications for the Postdoctoral Fellow (Physics & Astronomy) position. The Postdoctoral Fellow (Physics & Astronomy) is a full-time, one-year term position, starting at $50,000-$55,000 per year, commensurate with experience.

The postdoc will participate in a research program in the lab of Professor David Hanneke to create optical molecular clocks for new physics searches. The work will focus on laser spectroscopy of trapped molecular ions. The postdoc will contribute to effectively training and mentoring a diverse group of undergraduate students. The position has an initial appointment of one year. The Physics & Astronomy Department's faculty, postdocs, and students maintain a vibrant research environment, enhanced by weekly seminars as well as other nearby colleges.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Research and scholarship
  • Support new and ongoing research programs associated with an NSF grant to create optical molecular clocks for new physics searches
  • Design and construct experimental systems, in particular ones related to lasers and optics, vacuum, ion-trapping, and computer control
  • Design and implement experimental procedures for quantum-state control of molecules, molecular spectroscopy, and new-physics searches
  • Collect and analyze data. Evaluate statistical and systematic uncertainties
  • Participate in the preparation, publication, and dissemination of scientific results in peer-reviewed journals and at conferences
  • Effectively collaborate with a diverse group of other researchers at the college as well as the department's technical staff, such as attending the department colloquium and working with the heads of the Machine and Electronic Shops to create custom components for the lab
• Training undergraduate students
  • Train a diverse set of undergraduate students in laboratory techniques
  • Find ways to include undergraduates in the work of the lab, such as identifying projects that can be completed in a summer or two semesters
  • Collaborate with and mentor undergraduates in the lab, especially working closely with summer students and honors-thesis writers, paying attention to the creation of an engaging, inclusive student experience
• Lab management and other duties
  • Complete administrative tasks, such as laser and chemical safety training, or gathering documents for purchasing
  • Maintain a safe lab

Qualifications:

Required

• PhD in Physics or related field by the time the position starts
• Demonstrated level of independence to perform research responsibilities
• Strong Attention to detail, time management and organizational skills
• Commitment to working with undergraduate students
• Commitment to working with a diverse and inclusive community
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in one or more of atomic or molecular physics, optics, trapped charged particles, spectroscopy, precision measurement, quantum control, radiofrequency electronics, ultrahigh vacuum systems, molecular beams and/or computer control of experiments (experience in multiple areas preferred)
• Required reference and background checks

Preferred

• Experience with LabVIEW, Python, Mathematica
• Experience working with undergraduate students

Amherst College is pleased to provide a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families. Benefits are an important part of our overall compensation, so it is critical that you review all of the options to ensure it meets your total compensation requirements. Click here for Benefits Information.

Interested candidates are asked to submit a resume and cover letter addressing their qualifications and interest, a CV including a list of publications, and the names and contact information of three references. Applications should be submitted online at https://amherst.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Amherst_Jobs. Please be sure to upload all requested documents prior to clicking Submit. Applications cannot be revised once submitted. (Current employees and students should apply by clicking on the Jobs Hub icon from their Workday home screen) Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.