Assistant Research Scientist
Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory
Summary
The successful candidate will support laboratory research operations within the Quantum Diamond Laboratory, using state-of-the-art plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition reactors to grow quantum and microelectronics grade diamond. They will work within a team of scientists at PPPL and collaborators at Princeton University to conduct plasma, surface, and materials-science experiments and synthesize new diamond materials and devices with potential commercial applications.
Job description
Overview
The successful candidate will support laboratory research operations within the Quantum Diamond Laboratory, using state-of-the-art plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition reactors to grow quantum and microelectronics grade diamond. They will work within a team of scientists at PPPL and collaborators at Princeton University to conduct plasma, surface, and materials-science experiments and synthesize new diamond materials and devices with potential commercial applications.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the execution of experiments for the growth of high-purity single-crystal diamond using chemical vapor deposition (CVD), with precise control of defect incorporation, electronic dopants, and bespoke defects for quantum applications (e.g., NV and related color centers).
- Conduct supervised and unsupervised fabrication processes for diamond-based quantum and photonic devices, including surface processing, patterning, and integration of microwave/optical structures.
- Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams across materials science, quantum physics, and device engineering.
- Assist in preparation and publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
- Maintain laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and contribute to a safe and efficient research environment.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent training and/or experience in a technical area, including Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Availability for standard daytime working hours.
- Demonstrated ability to follow operating procedures, execute experimental protocols, document experimental outcomes and communicate results in written and non-written formats.
- Knowledge of general laboratory safety concepts and ability to follow safety protocols.
Highly Desirable
- Demonstrated expertise in CVD growth of single-crystal diamond or related materials deposition and epitaxy experiments.
- Experience in nanofabrication, developing quantum, photonic structures and/or microelectronic devices.
- Hands-on experience with advanced characterization techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL), SEM, AFM, EPR, TEM, XPS, XRD and other relevant tools.
- Familiarity with Plasma Physics, Quantum devices, or Quantum information platforms based on solid-state defects is advantageous.
- Developed scientific communication skills, including report writing and exposure to data analysis techniques.
- Ability to work effectively in team environments and conduct unsupervised experimental activities.
Physical Requirements
- Stand for long periods during experiments.
- Work in cleanroom or controlled environments.
- Wear PPE (safety glasses, gloves).
- Lifting typically 10-25 lbs routinely, sometimes up to 40-50 lbs with assistance.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent training and/or experience in a technical area, including Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
- Availability for standard daytime working hours
- Demonstrated ability to follow operating procedures, execute experimental protocols, document experimental outcomes and communicate results in written and non-written formats
- Knowledge of general laboratory safety concepts and ability to follow safety protocols
- Demonstrated expertise in CVD growth of single-crystal diamond or related materials deposition and epitaxy experiments
- Experience in nanofabrication, developing quantum, photonic structures and/or microelectronic devices
- Hands-on experience with advanced characterization techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL), SEM, AFM, EPR, TEM, XPS, XRD and other relevant tools
- Familiarity with Plasma Physics, Quantum devices, or Quantum information platforms based on solid-state defects
- Developed scientific communication skills, including report writing and exposure to data analysis techniques
- Ability to work effectively in team environments and conduct unsupervised experimental activities
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits program
- Benefits eligible
- 40 standard weekly hours
Company overview
Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory managed by Princeton University, specializing in plasma physics and fusion energy research. Founded in 1951, PPPL has over 70 years of history as a world leader in developing fusion as a sustainable and potentially limitless energy source. The laboratory employs approximately 600-800 scientists, engineers, and operations staff who conduct essential research across a full range of plasma applications. PPPL's primary focus includes advancing spherical tokamak technology through its flagship experiment, the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade (NSTX-U), which is the largest spherical tokamak in the United States. Beyond fusion energy, the laboratory has diversified its research portfolio to include microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. PPPL maintains extensive partnerships with academic institutions, industry leaders, and international research organizations, including key involvement in the ITER international fusion experiment in France. With an annual budget of approximately $177 million, the laboratory serves as both a premier research institution and an educational hub, offering the nation's first registered apprenticeship program in fusion energy and engineering.