Research Technician - Limited Term

Job Description Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Technician to join the Structural Quantum Optics (SQO) group at Chapman University. The successful candidate will play a central role in establishing a new laboratory, assisting in optical setup and alignment, supporting equipment procurement, and conducting cutting-edge experiments involving entangled photons, Timepix cameras, and single-photon detectors. This position offers hands-on experience with advanced optical instrumentation and the opportunity to contribute to impactful research in a collaborative academic environment

Responsibilities

• Assist in the setup, alignment, and maintenance of optical experiments, including arranging and mounting optics on optical tables.
• Support the procurement process by identifying, sourcing, and ordering optical components, detectors, and related equipment.
• Conduct experiments involving spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC) sources of entangled photons.
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot advanced single-photon detection systems, including Timepix cameras and APDs.
• Maintain laboratory organization, ensuring safe and efficient use of equipment and resources.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data; prepare reports, presentations, and contribute to publications.
• Collaborate with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students on experimental design and problem-solving
• Analyze experimental data using scientific software tools, prepare graphs and summaries, and assist in drafting reports, publications, or presentations.
• Maintain lab equipment, manage inventory of materials and consumables, and ensure compliance with safety protocols and lab cleanliness standards.
• Participate in research meetings, present updates, and collaborate with other team members on experimental planning and data interpretation.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Hands-on experience with optical systems, including alignment of lasers, nonlinear crystals, mirrors, lenses, and beam-splitters. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented research environment.
• Familiarity with photon detection systems, quantum optics experiments, and imaging systems.
• Proficiency in scientific data acquisition and analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW).

Desired Qualifications

• Prior experience with SPDC-based entangled photon sources. Experience in vacuum systems, optomechanics, or ultrafast laser systems.
• Knowledge of Timepix cameras, SPAD detectors, or other single-photon detection technologies.
• Background in experimental quantum information science.