Postdoctoral Associates

Theory PostDoc positions available: 

The UTC Quantum Center at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga invites applications for postdoctoral researcher under the supervision of Dr. Rick Mukherjee, Director of the Quantum Center and Associate Research Professor in Physics.

Postdoctoral research positions are available on the broad topics of many-body physics, quantum algorithms, quantum simulation and quantum information with AMO systems. Another project is about applying optimal control theory and machine learning for quantum sensing and communications. Depending on the project requirements, the postdoc will work closely with UTC experiments, Oak Ridge National Laboratory as well as local industry partners. If interested, please contact [email protected].

Experiment PostDoc positions available: 

The UTC Quantum Center at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in the fields of quantum networking and quantum sensing, under the supervision of Dr. Tian Li, Assistant Professor of Physics and Chief Technology Officer of the UTC Quantum Center. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering research at the forefront of quantum information science and engineering (QISE), leveraging a metro-scale quantum communication testbed and advanced quantum optical techniques. 

Research Focus

The successful candidate will work on cutting-edge research funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Key research areas include: 

• Designing and implementing quantum network protocols for distributed quantum sensing and information processing.
• Applying machine learning to enhance quantum communication fidelity and mitigate environmental disruptions.
• Developing quantum sensing techniques for bio-medical applications, such as biomechanical imaging and protein binding detection. 

Qualifications

• Required:
  • Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field by the start date.
  • Strong experimental or theoretical background in quantum optics or atomic physics.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
• Preferred:
  • Experience with squeezed light, photonic and/or atomic quantum systems.
  • Hands-on experience with free-space and/or fiber optics.
  • Familiarity with machine learning techniques (e.g., LSTM). 

Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research in quantum networking and sensing, contributing to experimental design, data collection, and analysis.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams at UTC and external partners (e.g., ORNL, IonQ).
• Co-author peer-reviewed publications and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in the UTC Quantum Center.