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University of Colorado Boulder

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Postdoctoral Associate or Research Associate in Quantum Networks and Quantum Optics University of Colorado Boulder in United States

Degree Level

Postdoc

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

Full-time research faculty position with salary range of $74,000–$108,000 annually for Postdoctoral Associate or $78,000–$135,000 annually for Research Associate. Onboarding/relocation assistance may be available. The role is part of NIST PREP and includes financial assistance through the program.

Deadline

Oct 2, 2026

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Country

United States

University

University of Colorado Boulder

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Keywords

Computer Science
Experimental Physics
Electrical Engineering
Fiber Optics
Quantum Optics
Non-linear Optics
Physics

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About this position

University of Colorado Boulder is advertising a Postdoctoral Associate or Research Associate position connected to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) and the Quantum Nanophotonics Group at NIST.

The project focuses on quantum networks, quantum optics, and nonlinear optics, with an emphasis on developing hardware for advanced protocols such as quantum position verification. The work includes building and testing high-quality single and entangled photon sources, characterizing entangled states distributed through a metropolitan fiber network, and supporting experimental protocols with theory and experimental teams.

Applicants should have a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. The postdoctoral track is for candidates with 0–4 years of post-PhD experience, while the research associate track requires 5+ years of post-PhD experience. Preferred experience includes experimental nonlinear optics or quantum optics, spontaneous parametric downconversion, bulk optics, integrated photonic devices, and programming in Python or Matlab. Strong publication and communication skills are also desired.

This is a full-time research faculty role in Boulder, Colorado, United States. The posting notes salary ranges of $74,000–$108,000 for the Postdoctoral Associate and $78,000–$135,000 for the Research Associate, with possible onboarding/relocation assistance. The position also requires completion of an NAIS agreement and federal security clearance.

To apply, submit a CV/resume and a cover letter through the CU Boulder jobs portal. A reference contact must be entered during the application process, and recommendation letters are requested after submission. For full consideration, apply by October 2, 2026.

Funding details

Full-time research faculty position with salary range of $74,000–$108,000 annually for Postdoctoral Associate or $78,000–$135,000 annually for Research Associate. Onboarding/relocation assistance may be available. The role is part of NIST PREP and includes financial assistance through the program.

What's required

Postdoctoral Associate requires a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 0–4 years of post-doctoral degree experience. Research Associate requires a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of post-doctoral degree experience. Preferred qualifications include 2+ years of relevant experience in experimental nonlinear optics or quantum optics, experience building entangled photons using spontaneous parametric downconversion, knowledge of bulk optics components and integrated photonic devices, familiarity with Python, Matlab, or similar programming languages, and strong oral and written communication skills with a strong record of peer-reviewed publications. Successful completion of an NAIS agreement and federal security clearance is required.

How to apply

Submit a CV or resume and a cover letter addressed to the Search Committee through CU Boulder Jobs. Enter a reference contact during the application process; the recommendation letter will be requested after submission. Apply by October 2, 2026 for full consideration.

More information can be found here

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