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Position Summary: The Department of Communication is seeking an Experimental Physicist: Research Scientist. An experimental physicist is sought for an interdisciplinary study of observer effects as it relates to the quantum measurement problem. The study will be a comprehensive assessment of observer effects in wave function collapse but will uniquely include psychological perspectives and methods in the development of research designs. The primary investigator will be a psychologist and the study will be conducted within the Institute for Research in Social Sciences at Stanford University.
The position will require that the researcher have a strong background in experimental methods, necessary to execute the Tonomura double slit design (using a BBO crystal) and the Mach-Zehnder interferometer design. A strong background in the quantum measurement problem would be desirable. Applicants must include a cover letter describing their expertise in executing the experiments described above and their background in regard to the quantum measurement problem. The primary investigator will be a psychologist and the study will be conducted within the Institute for Research in Social Sciences at Stanford University.
The project will begin with a comprehensive review of the literature—both theoretical and experimental—on variables influencing wave function collapse and developing a plan for replicating or testing a wide range of them. It will then develop and apply methods for assessing and controlling variables related to observation, drawing on ideas from psychology as well as quantum physics. Data will be analyzed, and results will be published in peer reviewed outlets.
The researcher will devote 80% of their time to the research project. The other 20% can be devoted to other research interests and taking advantage of other opportunities at Stanford University.
The position will be for 12 months with a possibility of renewal.
If you believe that this opportunity is a match for your knowledge, skills and abilities, we encourage you to apply. Thank you for considering employment opportunities with the School of Humanities and Sciences.
Qualifications - External
A successful candidate will have a PhD in empirical physics, experience collecting data in laboratory settings, conducting analysis of empirical data, experience reviewing published literature in physics and writing manuscripts reporting empirical results, and carrying papers through the revision and publication process.
This hybrid role is open to candidates anywhere in the United States. Stanford University has five Regional Pay Structures.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
Why Stanford is for You
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● Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
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Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at stanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University's research mission.
