Working at MIT offers opportunities, an environment, a culture – and benefits – that just aren’t found together anywhere else. If you’re curious, motivated, want to be part of a unique community, and help shape the future – then take a look at this opportunity.

RESEARCH SCIENTIST, Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research-Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), to join LIGO’s work observing the newly discovered gravitational-wave universe. Will work with Professor Nergis Mavalvala to oversee an experimental research program in quantum optics, quantum optomechanics, precision interferometry, and gravitational wave detection, including opportunities to do research at the LIGO’s world-leading observatories near Richland, WA and Baton Rouge, LA. Characteristic duties include assuming major responsibility for oversight of three ongoing experiments--a micro-mirror based optomechanical platform, a compact portable squeezed light source, and a precision fiber interferometer for single-photon experiments; managing laboratory infrastructure, budget, and procurement related to experiments; developing new directions for multiple experimental platforms; the day-to-day supervision of students and postdoctoral scholars; preparing manuscripts and conference presentations; and periodic travel to the LIGO observatories and labs of collaborators nationally and abroad. 

Job Requirements

REQUIRED:  Ph.D. in physics, astrophysics or closely related field and at least two years’ experience conducting postdoctoral research.  

PREFERRED: experience with quantum optics, optomechanics, and precision interferometry. Job #19076

Application material should be submitted in a single PDF and include a cover Letter (preferred but not required), CV, statement of research interests (maximum of two pages), a statement on mentoring and fostering diversity and inclusion (maximum two pages)l, a complete list of publications, and three letters of recommendation. These material should be submitted both through the MIT website and via email to Ms. Amanda Holley at aholley@mit.edu.

All applications received by December 1, 2020, will receive consideration.