Quantum Metrology Physicist

Full Job Description

CTL's Electromagnetic Fields Group is seeking a physicist to advance research in quantum-based sensing and electromagnetic field metrology.

The position focuses on developing atom-based measurement techniques and experiments to improve SI-traceable standards for RF field and power measurements.

Work supports emerging technologies in communications, spectrum monitoring, and calibration science through collaboration, publications, and standards activities.

All applicants must submit a resume NOT TO EXCEED two pages on standard-size paper.

If the resume exceeds two pages, only the first two pages will be reviewed for qualifications or assessment determinations. BASIC REQUIREMENTS: A.

Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. OR B.

Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.

AND In addition to the basic qualifications above, applicants must possess one of the following to qualify: A.

One year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level (ZP-II at NIST).

Specialized experience is defined as: - Experience applying theories, principles, and measurement methods in Rydberg atomic physics ( including cold- atom and other quantum systems) to design and execute experiments or research projects.

- Experience defining scientific problems, conducting background research, developing and implementing project plans, analyzing results, and preparing technical reports.

- Experience interpreting and adapting guidelines to address complex research issues, presenting findings clearly, and independently engaging with the scientific community through publications or conference presentations.

- Experience writing proposals and talking with sponsors to explain new ideas and discuss funded work. OR B. Master's or equivalent graduate degreeORC. OR C.

Combination of education and experience Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social).

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.

You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S.

Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.

If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration Major Duties:

In this position, you will: - Develop laboratory experiments in the area of Rydberg- atom spectroscopy for the purpose of developing new SI traceable measurement techniques for E- field and power sensors.

- Develop experiments related to atom- based sensors for use and probe and new receivers. - Develop equipment in cold atom systems and other quantum- based systems.

- Develop analytical models and laboratory experiments to define and measure radio- frequency field strength with application to fundamental field probe calibration research, communication signals, dynamic spectrum monitoring, electromagnetic compatibility test methods and standards, antenna characterization and general propagation studies.

- Develop analytical models and laboratory experiments to formulate continuous RF frequency detection, weak field detection, blackbody detection, detection of radio- frequency electric field magnitude and phase, as well as application of squeezed light and other quantum optics applications.

- Document results via reports, publications, standards organizations participation, and conference presentations.