NIST Superconducting Quantum Circuits: Computing & Simulations, Microwave Optomechanics, Foundations of Measurement
This grant explores using superconducting quantum circuits to build quantum computers, simulate quantum systems, and study quantum mechanics.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: February 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025
Funding Amounts: Stipend approximately $82,764 per year plus $3,000 travel allowance; typical appointment duration is 2 years.
Summary: Supports postdoctoral research at NIST in superconducting quantum circuits for quantum computing, simulations, microwave optomechanics, and foundational quantum measurement studies.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens holding a Ph.D. within the last 5 years; applications require prior contact with a NIST Research Adviser; NIST participates in February and August review cycles only.
Description
This fellowship opportunity at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) focuses on research involving superconducting quantum circuits. These circuits enable the creation of arbitrary quantum systems on a chip, utilizing linear and nonlinear microwave resonators as resonant cavities and artificial atoms (or spins) that interact via single microwave photons. The program also explores thin suspended metal membranes that vibrate at MHz frequencies with mechanical energy quantized at the single quanta level.
Research areas include:
- Quantum computing using superconducting qubits based on Josephson junctions.
- Quantum simulations with custom-designed quantum systems.
- Studies of light-matter interactions, including cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED) and optomechanics.
- Experimental investigations into the foundations of quantum mechanics.
The program offers hands-on experience in circuit design and architecture, materials science, fabrication processes, packaging, microwave engineering, and low-temperature experimental physics. Collaborative efforts exist among leading researchers at NIST, including Raymond W. Simmonds, Joe Aumentado, and John Teufel.
This fellowship is ideal for researchers interested in advancing fundamental science and technology at the intersection of quantum mechanics, superconductivity, and precision measurement.
