Quantum Computing Postdoc Research Associate Los Alamos, NM

Job Title

Quantum Computing Postdoc Research Associate

Los Alamos, NM, US

Physics and Chemistry of Materials / T‑1, Theoretical Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory

The Physics & Chemistry of Materials group (T‑1) is seeking a postdoctoral research associate to work at the intersection of quantum computing, strongly correlated electrons, and quantum embedding theory. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team focused on developing quantum‑centric embedding algorithms for simulating f‑electron systems, characterized by strong electron correlations and pronounced relativistic effects. You will contribute to advancing quantum embedding theory by integrating quantum computing and high‑performance computing (HPC) resources to address multiple levels of theory within the embedding framework, accurately partition complex systems into locally strongly correlated fragments, and investigate the use of symmetries to reduce local Hamiltonians, potentially yielding significant reductions in logical qubit requirements and quantum gate counts.

In addition, you will be co‑mentored by staff members in the T‑1 and T‑4 groups and participate in cross‑disciplinary collaborations, scientific workshop organization, and conference attendance.

• A Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related physical science, completed within the last five years or to be completed soon.
• Programming experience in Fortran, C/C++, or Python.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting original scientific research with peer‑reviewed publication records.
• Excellent communication and writing skills.

• Solid background in quantum many‑body physics.
• Experience developing electronic structure methods (e.g., DFT, DMFT, DMET, Quantum Monte Carlo, Gutzwiller).
• Experience in quantum computing (NISQ or fault‑tolerant algorithms).
• Experience with reduced‑scaling or massively parallel algorithms.
• Knowledge of quantum error correction or noise‑assisted quantum simulations.
• Experience with HPC or GPU programming.
• Ability to work creatively and independently and collaborate with a diverse multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Flexibility to adapt to new project requirements.

• Onsite location in Los Alamos, NM.
• Appointment for two years with possibility of a third‑year extension based on performance.
• Co‑mentorship by staff in the T‑1 and T‑4 groups.
• Compliance with federal restrictions:
  Individuals from the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea, or the Russian Federation who are not lawful permanent residents are prohibited from accessing facilities.

• PPO or high‑deductible medical insurance with a nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid maternity and parental leave.
• Award‑winning 401(k) with 6% match plus 3.5% escalation.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off (sick, vacation, holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages for distances beyond 50 miles.

Competitive salary based on Ph.D. completion date. Starting salary for a recent Ph.D. is $97,000.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal laws and regulations.

The Laboratory is also committed to making the workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.

Dr. Yu Zhang – zhy