Postdoctoral Research Associate - Quantum Algorithms

Oak Ridge National Laboratory • Oak Ridge, TN

3d

About The Position

The postdoctoral researcher will develop and demonstrate quantum algorithms for quantum simulations of condensed matter physics, with the goal of enabling large-scale simulation and quantification of materials properties using quantum computers. Research may focus on scaling quantum simulations using partially fault-tolerant methods, simulating topological materials, and developing approaches to measure thermodynamic material properties using quantum computers. The researcher will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team in quantum computing and condensed matter physics theory and experiment, and interpret, report, and present research concepts and results at conferences and in peer-reviewed publications.

The position is within the Quantum Computational Science Group in the Computational Sciences and Engineering Division (CSED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). CSED conducts transdisciplinary computational science and analytics at scale across physical sciences, engineering, and biomedicine and health. The Quantum Computational Science Group supports this mission by developing quantum computational methods and software for diverse scientific applications.

The appointment may last up to 24 months, with potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and funding availability. Applicants must not have received their Ph.D. more than five years before applying and must complete all degree requirements before the appointment begins. Employment requires appropriate identification and successful completion of the applicable federal background investigation or, for certain foreign national candidates, a favorable site-specific risk determination.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Strong foundation in quantum information and computational physics.
• Applicants must not have received their Ph.D. more than five years before the date of application.
• Applicants must complete all degree requirements before starting the appointment.
• Submit three letters of reference with the application.
• Must meet applicable ORNL identification, access, and background investigation requirements; certain foreign national candidates may need a favorable Local Site Specific Only risk determination.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in quantum algorithm design and implementation.
• Experience with tensor network calculations for many-body systems.
• Experience in contemporary theory of quantum thermodynamics.
• Knowledge of fault-tolerant methods for quantum computing.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self-starter able to work independently and contribute creatively to collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to changing needs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in quantum algorithm development for condensed matter physics.
• Write peer-reviewed scientific articles and present research findings at major scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with ORNL staff scientists and external collaborators.
• Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results in conferences and peer-reviewed publications.
• Align behaviors, priorities, and interactions with ORNL’s core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Benefits

• Medical plans
• Retirement plans
• Flexible work hours
• On-site fitness facilities
• On-site banking facilities
• On-site cafeteria facilities
• Prescription drug plan
• Dental plan
• Vision plan
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Contributory pension plan
• Life insurance
• Disability benefits
• Vacation and holidays
• Parental leave
• Legal insurance with identity theft protection
• Employee assistance plan
• Flexible spending accounts
• Health savings accounts
• Wellness programs
• Educational assistance
• Relocation assistance
• Employee discounts
• Competitive pay

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree