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Job Title


Senior Scientist-SNSPDs (Hybrid)


Company : Xanadu


Location : Toronto, Ontario


Created : 2025-10-09


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Your role and responsibilities: In this role, you will contribute your expertise in optics and photonics, cryogenics, to advance the performance of our Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors (SNSPDs). As a member of the Low Temperature Devices Team, your primary responsibility will be the development of record-breaking single photon detectors with ultrahigh system detection efficiency, short reset time and compact deployment. With your deep technical expertise and experience in SNSPD system development, you will play a critical role in designing and enhancing the performance and scalability of our SNSPD platform. This role requires significant experience with SNSPDs (both in design and characterization), cryogenic systems, and photonic hardware, as well as the ability to work effectively across disciplines in a fast-paced environment. You will design, assemble, and evaluate SNSPDs. You will take full ownership of their development, from concept through validation and deployment within large-scale detector arrays. Responsibilities include: Challenge the state-of-the-art in key SNSPD performance metrics relevant to Xanadus Architecture Independently operate cryogenic systems (e.g. He-4 evaporator based, dilution refrigerators), including cooldowns, troubleshooting, and maintenance Collaborate with internal and external process integration engineers, packaging engineers and technicians, including at Xanadus foundry partners Development of novel high-bandwidth, low latency RF electronics readout systems Perform cryostat-based iterative testing to validate coupling performance, repeatability and stability Required qualifications and experience: PhD in Physics, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field, with at least 2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience Proven track record designing, improving and characterizing SNSPDs Experience with high-bandwidth RF readout electronics Extensive hands-on experience operating cryostats, including cooldowns, troubleshooting, and maintenance Self-motivated, comfortable working both independently and collaboratively with people of all disciplines on complex projects in a fast-paced environment Detail-oriented with positive attitude towards work Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills Preferred knowledge and experience: Experience writing Python code Experience operating dilution refrigerators (DRs) and adiabatic demagnetization refrigerators (ADRs) CAD and simulation experience for thermal/mechanical modeling (e.g., Solidworks, COMSOL) Experience with fibreoptical coupling to superconducting devices Familiarity with analog test equipment (e.g., VNA, SMU) Experience with statistical process control and quality management system reporting methods Xanadu is committed to building an inclusive, safe, and equitable culture and fostering an environment where our employees feel included, valued, and heard. We are committed to meeting the needs of all individuals and support a barrier-free workplace. Xanadu is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities. If you require accommodations at any point during the recruitment process, please contact us. #J-18808-Ljbffr