Postdoctoral Research Associate – Quantum Materials

About the role

The DeLTA Lab at Northeastern University seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to design and fabricate photonic cavities and on‑chip ultrafast transport platforms for strong light‑matter coupling in frustrated quantum materials.

Key responsibilities

• Design, simulate (FDTD, inverse‑design) and fabricate IR/THz photonic cavities, integrate exfoliated flakes, and characterize coupling using optical and THz spectroscopy.
• Develop on‑chip ultrafast transport platforms with Auston switches and coplanar waveguides, performing cleanroom processing, wire‑bonding, and device testing.
• Conduct time‑resolved optical and electrical measurements in a 7 T, 1.5 K cryostat, analyze data, and prepare manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals and conferences.
• Mentor graduate, undergraduate and co‑op researchers, and maintain safe laboratory and cleanroom practices.

Required profile

• PhD (or equivalent) in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field, completed by the start date.
• Demonstrated ability to design, fabricate, and test photonic or high‑frequency electronic devices and to perform electromagnetic simulations.
• Experience planning experiments independently, analyzing results, and publishing in peer‑reviewed venues.

Required skills

• Photonic cavity design and fabrication (IR/THz DBR, quartz/vacuum cavities)
• Electromagnetic simulation tools (FDTD, finite‑element methods)
• Cleanroom nanofabrication: lithography, thin‑film deposition, etching, wire‑bonding
• Ultrafast optics and THz time‑domain spectroscopy
• Cryogenic measurement techniques (7 T, 1.5 K optical cryostat)
• Device testing and data analysis for pump‑probe and second‑harmonic generation experiments

What we offer

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness, retirement, and commuting support.
• Competitive salary range based on experience and qualifications.