Careers

Internationally recognized for its research and discoveries in quantum materials, quantum information, and quantum devices, the Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute (Blusson QMI) at the University of British Columbia is seeking highly motivated postdoctoral candidates with expertise in the following areas: crystal and thin-film growth, experimentation, spectroscopy, devices and applications, computational modelling, or theory of quantum matter, information, and computing to join its multi-disciplinary team of physicists, chemists, and engineers.

While conducting research in one or more of our core programs, successful candidates will collaborate with such world leading institutions as the Canadian Light Source, TRIUMF, the Max Planck Society, and The University of Tokyo; write and publish articles in top-tier journals; train and mentor students and other researchers; and contribute to the translation of promising applications to industry.

Interested applicants can find more information about open positions at https://qmi.ubc.ca/careers/ and should contact principal investigators https://qmi.ubc.ca/investigators/ aligned with their interests to discuss potential projects. Candidates must have obtained, or be close to completing, their doctoral degree, and be able to demonstrate a solid scientific background—as evidenced by publication record, letters of recommendation, and research proposal. Evidence of teamwork, strong communication skills, and ability to supervise students will also be considered.

To apply, please provide:

1. Cover letter, including the Blusson QMI researcher(s) with whom you have discussed projects;
2. Names of those who will provide recommendations;
3. Curriculum Vitae, including full publication list;
4. 1 – 2 page research proposal;
5. 3 letters of recommendation (to be sent directly by your referees).

Candidates: submit your application materials at https://ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/ubcfacultyjobs/details/QMI-Postdoctoral-Fellowship_JR10267

Referees: please email letters of recommendation directly to jobs@qmi.ubc.ca

Application deadline: Please submit all application materials by November 30, 2022. (Application review will start from November 7.)

UBC – One of the World’s Leading Universities

As one of the world’s leading universities, the University of British Columbia creates an exceptional learning environment that fosters global citizenship, advances a civil and sustainable society, and supports outstanding research to serve the people of British Columbia, Canada and the world.

UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.

The Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute (Blusson QMI) at UBC is a world-leading venture into research of systems and phenomena involving quantum mechanics. One of its core areas of strength is research into various condensed matter systems that employ sophisticated electron microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.

The Quantum Materials Electron Microscopy Centre (QMEMC) located at UBC/QMI is a state of the art facility that supports not only quantum material research but a wide range of projects both with academia and industry. The QMEMC is seeking a PhD-level scientific researcher to support research thrusts using electron microscopy and spectroscopy to study quantum materials. This multi-year position as a Research Associate will support the Institute’s Principal Investigators in the development and operation of electron microscopy/spectroscopy facilities for the study of bulk materials exhibiting emergent quantum phenomena. The candidate will also engage in and support study of these materials using a range of complementary optical techniques

Under the direction of the QMEMC Director, the successful candidate will: oversee the operation of a state-of-the-art scanning electron microscope / focused ion beam (SEM/FIB) instrument and an aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) optimized for both atomic level imaging and high energy and momentum resolved spectroscopy; mentor a team of students and postdocs; support multiple research groups that utilize the electron microscopy/spectroscopy facilities in their investigations; coordinate and interpret measurements; publicize research findings through presentations at international conferences and prepare articles for peer-reviewed journals; and contribute to writing funding proposals that will add new capabilities to the QMEMC.

Blusson QMI believes in the power of collaboration to fuel the search for creative solutions and, in addition to building a strong interdisciplinary team of experimentalists and theorists from physics, chemistry and applied science, have established active partnerships with TRIUMF, the Canadian Light Source, the Max Planck Society, University of Tokyo, and many other world leading institutions.

The successful candidate will thrive in our collegial culture and will bring the following qualifications to the role:

• A PhD in an area relevant to the research pursuits of Blusson QMI and the QMEMC;
• At least three years postdoctoral experience in the field;
• Well-established expertise in the use of electron and optical microscopy and spectroscopy facilities in the study of quantum materials with a range of techniques;
• Well-established expertise in a wide range of sample characterization techniques, including the use of an SEM/FIB for preparing lamella suitable for study using electron microscopy/spectroscopy;
• Well-established expertise in the development and operation of electron and optical microscopy and spectroscopy facilities;
• A competitive record of publications in reputable scientific journals;
• Demonstrated capacity to pursue independent research;
• Experience leading research projects;
• Experience supervising students or staff;
• Demonstrated ability to work in a multi-disciplinary, highly collaborative environment where resources and expertise are shared.

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity to push the boundaries of knowledge through the discovery of new materials, please apply with your CV, a statement of research interests, and a covering letter.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. UBC offers a competitive benefits package including extended medical, dental, life insurance, and pension.

For more information about Blusson QMI: qmi.ubc.ca
For more information about Vancouver: http://www.tourismvancouver.com/

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver
invites applications from outstanding candidates for two tenure-track Assistant Professor
positions in all fields of astronomy, astrophysics and physics, including but not limited to applied
physics, astronomy, astrophysics, atomic molecular and optics physics, biophysics, condensed
matter, gravitation, high energy or nuclear physics, medical physics and quantum
information/quantum computing. We encourage applications from candidates across theory,
observation, experiment, and computation. The successful candidates will create independent,
internationally recognized research programs which complement the existing strengths of the
department. The successful candidates will also be expected to teach effectively at the
undergraduate and graduate levels, supervise graduate students, and provide service within the
Department, to the University, and to the broader community. Applicants must have a Ph.D.
degree or equivalent in a relevant field, an outstanding research record, and potential for
excellence in teaching. Candidates will have strong commitment to equity, diversity, and
inclusion and a commitment to creating a welcoming community where those who are
historically, persistently, or systemically marginalized are treated equitably, feel respected, and
belong.

The Physics and Astronomy Department is one of the largest and most scientifically diverse in
Canada. Our over 60 faculty members, and staff, are committed to attracting and training
outstanding students and conducting forefront research spanning many fields. UBC researchers
have ready access to on-campus facilities such as the TRIUMF particle accelerator centre and the
Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute, and carry out research at international facilities,
including SNOLAB, CERN, KEK, and LIGO. UBC astronomers are involved in major
observatories and space missions including Gemi-ni, ALMA, CHIME, CFHT, Euclid, GBT,
HST, JWST, and VLA. Additional information on the De-partment of Physics and Astronomy
can be found at phas.ubc.ca.

A CV, publications list, a statement of research interests, a summary of teaching interests and
experience, and a diversity statement are required. Candidates should arrange for three letters of
reference to be submitted using Academic Jobs Online: https://phas.ubc.ca/open-positionsphysics-
astronomy

UBC’s strategic plan identifies inclusion as one of our key priorities. We welcome colleagues
with the experiences and competencies that can contribute to our principles of inclusion, equity,
and diversity throughout campus life. In your diversity statement, please describe your
experience working with a diverse student body as well as your past, present and/or future
contributions to creating/advancing a culture of equity and inclusion on campus or within your
discipline.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community
fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. Inclusion is built
by individual and institutional responsibility through continuous engagement with diversity to
inspire people, ideas, and actions for a better world. We encourage applications from members of
groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the BC Human Rights
Code including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability,
political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit
or Indigenous person. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and
permanent residents will be given priority.

The preferred start date is Summer 2023. Review of applications will start Nov. 18, 2022 and
will continue until the position is filled.

UBC Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute invites applications for the Co-op position of Instrumentations CAD Designer at the Laboratory for Atomic Imaging Research (LAIR).

Job Summary
This is a unique opportunity for a passionate CAD designer who has completed at least one co-op work term with interest to participate in the development of cutting-edge, custom-made instrumentation for analysis of quantum materials. The designer will be working under Prof. Sarah Burke and the LAIR group research associates team to create precise industrial designs of ultra-high vacuum compatible systems for the construction of a 4-probe scanning tunneling microscope. The Designer will work with a strongly motivated supporting team including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and a project manager. The designer will be asked to work on SolidWorks.

While a Physics background is not required, a background in Physics is an asset. Experience in CAD design is a must.

About the Organization
The UBC Laboratory for Atomic Imaging Research (LAIR) is hosted by the Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute (Blusson QMI), one of UBCs Global Research Excellence Institutes.

At LAIR we apply the tools of Scanning Probe Microscopy to develop a deep understanding of new materials for information and energy technologies, ranging from correlated electron systems to nanoscale materials for organic solar cells. We are actively developing new instrumentation and methods to expand our capabilities and understanding of physics at the atomic length scale. Our combination of tools, expertise, and an advanced facility provide us with unique glimpses into the world of electrons in Quantum Materials

The LAIR itself is a state-of-the-art facility for Scanning Probe Microscopy. This facility was specially designed to create independent extreme low-vibration environments for each of our instruments. Each independent ‘pod’ features acoustic isolation provided by 30cm thick concrete walls, specialized acoustic doors, sound absorbing materials throughout, and floating inertial floor pads of 22-90 tonnes. The reduced noise environment provides us with extreme long term stability for long-run spectroscopic experiments, better signal to noise ratio in all of our data, and smoother operation of the instruments. The low vibration environments house our four currently operational low-temperature ultrahigh vacuum SPM instruments, each with distinct capabilities, allowing for the study of a wide range of materials and phenomena.

More information about Blusson QMI is available at https://qmi.ubc.ca/

Work Performed
Under the guidance and coordination of Prof. Sarah Burke and Postdoctoral Fellow Markus Altthaler, the CAD designer is required to:

1. Perform CAD design of chambers compatible with ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic temperatures
2. Perform CAD design of cleaving and annealing stages for sample surface preparation
3. Perform CAD design of a scanning tunneling microscope tip treatment setup
4. Keep organized drawing documentation including versions and technical details
5. Follow the PSPC National CADD Standard and best design practices, including proper scaling, and ensuring compatibility of different design parts
6. Complete all evaluations and reports in a timely manner
7. Perform other duties, as requested by the coordinators

Supervision
The CAD designer Co-op will work directly under the supervision of the Prof. Sarah Burke, and Postdoctoral Fellow Markus Altthaler. Project personnel will meet weekly to discuss progress, design steps and planning, with regular interaction with LAIR team members for advice and guidance throughout the week as needed. Project leads will provide support regarding the general organization of the project and scheduling of tasks and meetings. The rest of the team will include research associates, postdocs, and graduate students who are able to provide extra support to the CAD designer in the role.

Impact
With British Columbia emerging as a leader in quantum matter, and quantum technology taking a central role in modern life, this project will be central to keep Blusson QMI at the forefront of an endeavor that will shape future economy and society as Silicon continues to do. The development of state-of-the-art materials and data, in this field, cannot be overstated.

Given the highly specialized knowledge necessary to venture in quantum matter, a further goal of this project is to help promote young talent to work in the field. Equipping the co-op with design experience in a highly specialized context — ultra-high vacuum, cryogenic temperatures – will vastly expand the career opportunities for the intern in an innovative are in which Canada is committed to excel.

Required Qualifications

1. A strong background in physics or engineering
   1. CAD design experience is a must
   2. We accept students of any year standing – undergraduate, or graduate
2. Must have completed at least one Co-op term
3. Experience with CAD design software a highly desired (SolidWorks or Inventor)
4. Basic machining experience
5. Creative and Innovative: seeks new and better ways of doing things, contributes imaginative ideas for tools, parts, or projects
6. Proven leadership skills and exceptional teamwork abilities
7. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
8. Planning, organizational, and self-directed work skills
9. Ability to communicate with vendors to produce finalized drawings for purchase (experience preferred)

Preferred Qualifications

1. Engineering Physics or Mechanical engineering background
2. Experience with SolidWorks
3. Willingness to learn new technologies, and an interest in quantum matter
4. Familiarity with vacuum systems

An ideal CAD Designer will be creative, collaborative, and highly organized, with a clear understanding of industrial design needs. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are extremely important. Project management experience is an asset. The CAD Designer should have proven leadership skills and be comfortable in a self-directed work environment.

Term of Appointment
This position is for a 4-month or 8-month term starting in May 2023 (Summer Term).

To Apply
Science and APSC co-op students can apply through their respective co-op portals (posting end date February 17, 2023)
Others can email resume, transcripts and cover letter to ken.c.wong@ubc.ca