Computational Scientist, Quantum Energy Systems
About The Position
Pronoia Energy is a pioneering deep tech startup at the forefront of quantum energy storage innovation. As a lean, mission-driven team, we thrive on rapid prototyping, cross-disciplinary collaboration and solving complex engineering challenges to turn quantum physics into practical, scalable products. Our current focus is on developing our groundbreaking room-temperature macroscopic quantum energy storage technology that promises orders of magnitude greater energy density, faster charging, and higher power delivery as well as being cheaper and safer compared to existing battery technology. This represents a paradigm shift in energy storage with applications spanning consumer electronics, electric vehicles, renewable grids, and beyond. To meet our ambitious goals we are hiring a Computational Scientist to let us test ideas before we build them, dramatically accelerating our path to a working device. This is a foundational role in a high-stakes, high-reward startup environment, and because our materials function is still taking shape, you will help define how Pronoia does simulation. In this role you will simulate how our materials behave at the atomic and molecular scale, using methods such as density functional theory, molecular dynamics, and finite-element modeling. Because our entire strategy depends on running the experimental loop faster than anyone else, every experiment your simulations replace or guide is days or weeks saved. You will work closely with our experimental physicists and chemists, turning simulation into real experimental decisions and validating your models against measured reality. This role is onsite in Torrance, California.
Requirements
- PhD-level depth in computational materials science, condensed-matter physics, or computational chemistry.
- Strong production coding in Python or C++ and fluency with real simulation packages.
- A track record of connecting simulation to actual experimental outcomes, not only publications.
- Comfort defining a function from scratch and excitement about the quantum-materials frontier.
- A self-starter who thrives amid ambiguity and rapid iteration.
Nice To Haves
- Experience simulating battery materials, electrodes, or quantum materials.
- A record of turning simulations into decisions that changed an experiment.
- Familiarity with high-performance and parallel computing for large simulations.
- Prior work in deep tech R&D alongside interdisciplinary teams.
Responsibilities
- Build and run atomic- and molecular-scale simulations of our materials and candidate structures.
- Connect simulation results to real experimental decisions, and validate models against measured data.
- Establish the tools, methods, and standards for simulation across the company.
- Collaborate tightly with the experimental teams who generate ground-truth data.
- Provide data-driven insight that informs each design iteration.
Benefits
- Competitive salary, equity in a transformative startup, and performance-based incentives.
- Access to cutting-edge labs, tools, and resources in a flexible, collaborative work environment.
- Comprehensive benefits: health insurance, unlimited PTO, professional development stipend, and relocation assistance if needed.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
