Postdoctoral Fellow - Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM)
Competition 2698
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Description
This position is part of the Post Doctoral Fellows Association and has an initial appointment of one year, with the possibility of extension (yearly contract).
This position has a comprehensive benefits package.
Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.
Working at the University of Alberta
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Position Summary
A postdoctoral position is available in Professor Robert Wolkow’s group at the University of Alberta, Department of Physics. Extensive ultra-high vacuum scanning tunnelling or scanning force microscopy is an essential requirement of candidates.
Our work is focused on the fabrication and characterization of atom-defined silicon entities. Recently, we have demonstrated Binary Atomic Silicon Logic (BASiL) devices, which consume about 1000x less energy than CMOS while also enabling faster operation. Our same toolkit of knowledge and techniques allows us to make a variety of silicon-based quantum devices. A newly established RF-capable, 5T magnet-equipped SPM enables atom-scale spin studies. This work is enabled by grants we recently received totalling ~$4M.
Our spin-off company, Quantum Silicon Inc., is commercializing devices based upon our research group’s work. This includes the first purpose-built atom-precise manufacturing tool.
Multiple graduate students and postdoctoral fellows have transitioned directly from our research group to full-time employment at Quantum Silicon (in Edmonton, Canada and at our new subsidiary in Palo Alto).
Responsibilities will include:
This successful candidate will lead the fabrication and characterization of atom-defined entities. The postdoc will be highly collaborative, as they will interface with academic and industry partners as they make, measure, evaluate and improve upon designs. This work will include the following tasks.
- STM/AFM fabrication and characterization of atom-defined elements such as wires, quantum dots, and qubits.
- Design and conduct experiments in consultation with Prof. Wolkow and other group members.
- Collaboration with coworkers and industry/academic partners to achieve goals.
- Contribute to setting research directions and assist in establishing research methods and standards.
- Assist in the supervision and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students.
- Prepare research papers, presentations, and/or publications.
- Present research results at seminars and scientific conferences.
Required qualifications
- PhD in experimental condensed matter physics
- Extensive publication-proven expertise in operating ultra-high vacuum scanning probe microscopes to obtain atom-resolved results.
- Relevant research experience in atom-scale characterization of materials.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Familiarity with programming, including Python and LabView.
- Proven people skills to enable effective collaborative work
Salary
- $65,000 CAD annually plus benefits
To apply, please submit the following in a single PDF document:
- Kindly do not apply if lacking expert-level ultra-high vacuum scanning probe microscopy experience
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications
- Statement of research interests
- References (Please provide names and contact information of 3 references. We are not requesting reference letters with the initial application.)
At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
ApplyNote: This opportunity will be available until midnight November 25, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time.