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RAP opportunity at National Institute of Standards and Technology     NIST

Pushing the Frontiers of Neutron Interferometry

Location

Physical Measurement Laboratory, Radiation Physics Division

opportunity location
50.68.21.C1121 Gaithersburg, MD

NIST only participates in the February and August reviews.

Advisers

name email phone
Michael Garth Huber michael.huber@nist.gov 301 975 5641

Description

Neutron interferometry is a powerful measurement technique that leverages the neutron’s unique properties and quantum nature to investigate fundamental questions in physics, including searches for physics beyond the Standard Model,  exploring quantum entanglement, and probing nuclear structure. The NIST Center for Neutron Research maintains two state-of-the-art instruments dedicated to perfect-crystal neutron interferometry. Perfect-crystal neutron interferometry, analogous to an optical Mach-Zehnder interferometry, separates a neutron’s wavefunction into spatially distinct  paths using Bragg diffraction within a defect-free, impurity-free crystal lattice. The resulting interference pattern reveals the relative quantum phase accumulated along the paths thus allowing the interferometer to probe  subtle  physical effects.  At NIST we strive to advance the sensitivity, precision, and versatility of crystal interferometry.  Recent progress has included innovations in crystal geometry, silicon fabrication, and environment isolation, all contributing to improved measurement capability. This research opportunity seeks to further advance the performance of neutron interferometry. Our aim is to develop novel methods that significantly improve sensitivity and enable new experimental configurations, supporting the next generation of high-impact experiments in fundamental physics

key words

neutron; interferometry; quantum entanglement; fundamental physics; high-precision;

Eligibility

citizenship

Open to U.S. citizens

level

Open to Postdoctoral applicants

Stipend

Base Stipend Travel Allotment Supplementation
$82,764.00 $3,000.00
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