Quantum Formatics Research Technician (Metals/Alloys) Cambridge, MA · Full time Company website

Apply for Research Technician (Metals/Alloys)

Quantum Formatics is a materials discovery startup building next-generation superconductors for high-field applications, from more accessible MRI technology to scalable fusion energy. Our work is published, patent-pending, and backed by top venture capital investors. Based at The Engine in Cambridge, MA, we are a small, focused team of scientists and engineers operating at the intersection of materials science, AI, and applied physics. We are in a strong financial position with committed institutional backing and are scaling our R&D team to accelerate the pace of discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Sample Preparation – Precision cutting and massing of metal foils; casting metal samples in epoxy and executing metallographic polishing.
• Magnetic Characterization – Measure superconducting properties of samples by operating a Quantum Design MPMS (SQUID magnetometer) in a shared user facility.
• Data & Recordkeeping – Maintaining detailed, accurate entries in an electronic lab notebook (ELN).
• Database Management – Logging samples and results into a shared database that interfaces with the computational research group.
• Lab Maintenance – Assist with routine upkeep of equipment and consumables inventory; safe handling of materials in compliance with all applicable lab safety protocols.

Required Qualifications

• B.S. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field – OR – A.S./A.A.S. in a relevant technical field plus 2+ years of hands-on laboratory experience
• Demonstrated comfort with physical lab work (cutting, polishing, weighing, handling delicate samples)
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate, thorough recordkeeping
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple samples and tasks simultaneously, and follow established protocols
• Effective written communication skills for lab notebook documentation

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with metallographic sample preparation (mounting, grinding, polishing)
• Experience operating or assisting with a SQUID magnetometer or other cryogenic/magnetic characterization equipment
• Familiarity with an ELN platform (e.g., SciSure, LabArchives, or similar)
• Experience working with structured laboratory databases
• Familiarity with arc melting furnace operation or related thermal processing equipment

Schedule

• Full-time, 40 hours/week with flexible scheduling.
• Candidates willing to work some evenings and/or weekends (in lieu of standard Monday–Friday daytime hours) will be given strong preference.
• Flexible scheduling allows for uninterrupted access to shared instrumentation during off-peak hours and is well-suited to candidates who thrive outside a traditional 9–5 structure.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation with a performance-based bonus structure
• Employee sponsored benefits including health and dental insurance, plus a 401(k).
• Unlimited paid time off (PTO): minimum three weeks, federal holidays, and a company-wide closure between Christmas and New Years to support work-life balance.
• A flexible, hybrid work environment based at The Engine, MIT's tough tech incubator, located in the heart of Kendall Square. Easily accessible by public transit and surrounded by one of the most vibrant innovation communities in the world.
• Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge materials research at the ground floor of a growing startup
• Collaborative environment bridging experimental and computational materials science