Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Control and Information Science

What You Will Do

We are seeking qualified candidates to join the Theoretical Division (T-Division) at Los Alamos National Laboratory. T-Division offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment that promotes interdisciplinary collaboration in support of the Laboratory's strategic basic research and national security missions. Within T-Division, the Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group (T-5) conducts cutting-edge research in areas such as novel algorithms, numerical methods, and theoretical modeling.

Applications span a wide range of fields, including fusion and high energy density science, space plasma physics, astrophysics, numerical analysis, machine learning, computational imaging, optimization, artificial intelligence, environmental science, and the modeling of critical infrastructure systems such as gas pipelines and electrical grids.

The selected candidate will work closely with mentors and other collaborators to develop novel algorithms for optimal control of quantum systems related to computing, communication, and metrology. The work will involve developing new numerical methods that use spectral approximation, interior point optimization, and tensor decompositions to represent high-dimensional uncertainty in control of entangled qubit or qudit systems. A strong background in optimization and control with emphasis on numerical methods and algorithms is preferred.

The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of a third-year extension contingent on performance and available funding.

What You Need

Minimum

Job Requirements:

• A Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Computational Science, or a closely related field completed within the past five years or soon to be completed.
• Demonstrated ability to publish in scientific journals, and to communicate effectively, both written and orally.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and develop solutions for complex problems while effectively networking with peers.
• Expertise in dynamical systems, control theory, and quantum physics
• Proficiency in one or more of MATLAB, Python, Julia, Rust, and/or C/C++.

Desired

Qualifications:

• Experience in developing and implementing numerical methods for optimization in function space
• Experience in scientific computing.
• Experience with software development and version control.
• Experience with quantum fault tolerance methods.

Note to Applicants:

When applying online, please include the following files with your application: a CV (please include month/year PhD expected/obtained) and a detailed cover letter describing the candidate's interest and qualifications in this research area.

Fellowship Opportunities:
Candidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship, CNLS Fellowship, Chick Keller Fellowship, Mark Kac Fellowship, or Nicholas

C. Metropolis Fellowship.

Salary:
Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $97,000.

Work Location:

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Note to Applicants:

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Where You Will Work

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

No Clearance:
Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.

New-Employment Drug Test:
The Laboratory…