Staff Scientist PIC Laser

About Vector Atomic:

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. If you’re excited to work on breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Location: This role is based onsite at our office in Pleasanton, CA.
Travel: Up to 5%
Job ID: 1703

The Role: 

As a PIC Laser Scientist, you will bridge the gap between fundamental optical physics and scalable chip-scale technology. You will be responsible for the end-to-end development of custom laser systems, evolving them from initial concept through system-level integration. Your work will primarily focus on architecting the transition of high-precision frequency combs and ultra-low-noise systems from traditional discrete components to advanced Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) platforms. By combining hands-on benchtop metrology with sophisticated chip-level simulation, you will drive the innovation of laser architectures for next-generation quantum timing, atomic clocks, and inertial sensors. 

Responsibilities:

• System Architecture: Develop custom laser systems from fiber-based oscillators to integrated chip-scale architectures.
• PIC Design & Simulation: Design and simulate PIC layouts optimized for high-Q micro-resonators and dispersion-engineered nonlinear optics using materials like SiN, TFLN, and Tantala.
• Translation & Integration: Architect the migration of frequency combs and low-noise systems from discrete fiber/free-space components to PIC platforms.
• Assembly & Characterization: Build and characterize conventional systems, including fiber spooling, MOPA configurations, and discrete nonlinear conversion stages.
• Precision Metrology: Perform rigorous characterization of frequency noise, phase noise, and Allan deviation at both the benchtop and chip levels.
• Frequency Stabilization: Develop testing protocols for stabilization architectures, including PDH locking and f-2f self-referencing.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with hardware teams to integrate laser systems into atomic clocks and quantum timing sensors.

Requirements:

• 3+ years of professional experience working with ultra-stable cavities, frequency combs, or atomic clocks.
• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics.
• To comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (i.e. green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.
• Metrology Expertise: Hands-on experience measuring RIN, frequency noise, and phase noise using Phase Noise Analyzers and high-speed RF equipment.
• Nonlinear Optics: Experience with supercontinuum generation or SHG in bulk crystals, nonlinear fibers, or integrated waveguides.
• Fiber & Bulk Optics: Proficiency in fiber fusion splicing (PM/specialty), fiber spooling, and high-tolerance free-space assembly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Integrated Photonics Design: Proficiency in simulation suites such as Lumerical (FDTD/MODE) or COMSOL for designing waveguides and resonators.
• Frequency Comb Mastery: Deep understanding of mode-locked lasers and fceo- detection and stabilization.
• Advanced Materials: Practical experience with chip-level probing and coupling (edge/grating) specifically for SiN, Thin-Film Lithium Niobate, or Tantala.
• Control Systems: Strong understanding of PID control loops, high-bandwidth feedback, and low-noise frequency/power controllers.
• Scientific Computing: Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for automating optical characterization and processing high-bandwidth noise data.
• Optical Packaging: Experience with high-efficiency laser-to-chip integration and coupling techniques.

  **Benefits will be provided by Vector Atomic, an IonQ Company, and will differ from the benefits listed on the IonQ website.**

Benefits:

Vector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We offer competitive compensation and benefits including:

• Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
• Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employer 401(k) contributions
• 20 days of paid time off & 11 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Fully stocked kitchen

The approximate base salary range for this position is $163,430 to $213,972 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits.  It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level.