Research scientist in gravitational-wave research

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) seeks a highly motivated and skilled Research Scientist to join in our work observing the newly discovered gravitational-wave universe. The Research Scientist 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. 

 

Since the founding of MIT in 1861, MIT has been an exceptional place full of exceptional people. The MIT motto, Mens et Manus “Mind and Hand” speaks to the way our community is known for transforming ideas into reality and creating a better world. Each member of the community is a valuable part of our transformational work. MIT is proud to offer best-in-class health plans, a pension plan, fully subsidized T passes, and many other benefits that ensure employees are healthy and secure and enjoy a fulfilling work/life balance. (Full benefits information available at https://hr.mit.edu/careers/discover .)   

 

The LIGO group at MIT is situated within the Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research (MKI) on MIT’s campus in Cambridge, MA, which is situated along the Charles River. MIT employees enjoy the beauty of four seasons with the benefit of being a short drive away from beaches, mountains, museums, and other metropolitan areas. LIGO, MKI, and MIT seek to build an outstanding workforce that is diverse and inclusive and provide a supportive environment that is a welcoming place for everyone. 

 

Characteristic Duties

·      Major responsibility for oversight of three on-going experiments: a micro-mirror based optomechanical platform, a compact portable squeezed light source, and a precision fiber interferometer for single-photon experiments. 

·      Management of laboratory infrastructure, budget, and procurement related to experiments. 

·      Development of new directions for multiple experimental platforms. 

·      Day-to-day supervision of students and postdoctoral scholars.

·      Preparation of manuscripts and conference presentations. 

·      Periodic travel to the LIGO observatories and labs of collaborators nationally and abroad. 

 

Minimum Qualifications

·      A Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics or a closely related field.

·      At least 2 years’ experience conducting postdoctoral research. 

 

Preferred Qualifications

·      Experience with quantum optics, optomechanics and precision interferometry is desirable, but not required. 

 

Application Documents

·      Cover Letter (preferred but not required)

·      CV

·      Statement of research interests (maximum of 2 pages)

·      Statement on mentoring and fostering diversity and inclusion (maximum 2 pages)

·      Complete list of publications

·      Three letters of recommendation

 

Please submit a single PDF containing all documents via MIT’s career portal and send a copy to Ms. Amanda Holley at [email protected]. All applications received by December 1, 2020 will receive consideration. 

 

EEO Statement

 

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is committed to equal opportunity in education and employment. The Institute does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin. All job applicants at MIT have the right to full and equal consideration on the basis of merit and other relevant, meaningful criteria.