Research Scientist 1

MIT • Cambridge, MA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Scientist 1 position in the Research Laboratory of Electronics participates in and may contribute to the design, development, and execution of research projects focused on machine-learning-assisted design and AI-driven optimization of quantum systems, in collaboration with the broader research team. This role involves conducting theoretical and computational analysis of quantum photonic/hardware systems, interpreting and implementing research methodology based on analysis outcomes, and authoring/co-authoring research results for peer-reviewed journals and conferences. The scientist will prepare and present findings at lab meetings, seminars, and research conferences, and prepare progress reports for sponsors. Additionally, the role may involve providing technical guidance to graduate students, UROP students, and postdoctoral researchers on projects related to AI-assisted quantum system design.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field
• A minimum of two years of postdoctoral research experience
• Strong background in theoretical and computational physics
• Demonstrated ability to transition methods (e.g., machine learning, numerical optimization) across research domains

Nice To Haves

• Experience with quantum computing, quantum information science, or quantum photonics
• Experience applying machine-learning or AI-driven optimization methods to physical/engineering systems
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications

Responsibilities

• Participates and may contribute to the design, development, and execution of research projects on machine-learning-assisted design and AI-driven optimization of quantum systems.
• Conducts theoretical and computational analysis of quantum photonic/hardware systems.
• Interprets and implements research methodology based on analysis outcomes.
• Authors and co-authors research results for peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
• Prepares and presents findings at lab meetings, seminars, and research conferences.
• Prepares periodic progress reports on research project phases for sponsors.
• May provide technical guidance to graduate students, UROP students, and postdoctoral researchers on projects related to AI-assisted quantum system design.

What This Job Offers

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