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# Senior Quantum Hardware Scientist

- **Company:** Cogent Inc
- **Location:** Gaithersburg, MD, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $156,679.0 - $200,474.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Hardware Design, Network Architecture
- **Published:** June 24, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=6228168e0a65727d

## About the Role

Do you have experience in Technical research projects?, * PhD in Quantum Physics (mandatory - no substitutions accepted)

 * Minimum 8 years of hands-on experience conducting quantum experiments
 * Minimum 8 years of experience in independent design, implementation, and testing of quantum systems
 * Minimum 8 years of experience working with quantum apparatus for phase characterization and stabilization
 * Minimum 8 years of experience in quantum hardware development for quantum experiments, * Direct experience with entanglement swapping, two-photon interference, or quantum networking experiments
 * Prior work in a national laboratory or government research environment
 * Strong publication record in quantum optics or quantum information science
 * Familiarity with NIST quantum testbeds or similar research infrastructure

## Description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Quantum Hardware Scientist to serve as the Key Personnel on a high-profile NIST contract focused on quantum networking metrology. This is a unique opportunity to work full-time, embedded at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland, supporting cutting-edge research in quantum communications, entanglement sources, and ultra-stable laser systems.

You will work directly with NIST's Quantum Network Architecture and Protocols (QNAP) Group on experimental quantum hardware development., * Establish and develop a quantum engineering laboratory for network metrology experiments

 * Design, build, and characterize polarization-entangled photon sources for entanglement swapping experiments
 * Develop and stabilize miniature ultra-stable lasers at 1550 nm using NIST-designed cavities
 * Perform precision measurements including two-photon interference, phase noise characterization, and coherence length evaluation
 * Prepare technical documentation, schematics, experimental setups, and monthly progress reports
 * Collaborate closely with NIST scientists while independently driving technical execution


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