Postdoctoral Research Associate - Quantum Algorithms Materials Simulations

Requisition Id15721

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will contribute to the development and implementation of novel quantum algorithms for materials simulation, with a particular emphasis on error-corrected methods for future fault-tolerant quantum computing. The algorithms will be designed to address key models of quantum materials, such as the Hubbard model, with the goal of demonstrating a path towards fault-tolerant quantum advantage in simulating complex material systems.

The position will involve a combination of algorithmic design, numerical implementation on hybrid quantum-classical hardware, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of researchers in quantum computing and computational condensed matter physics. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in quantum computing, computational physics, and a solid understanding of condensed matter quantum many-body theory.

• Design and test novel quantum algorithms for materials simulations.
• Develop resource estimates for implementing these algorithms on quantum hardware.
• Perform hybrid quantum-classical simulations for fermionic and Hubbard-like materials models.
• Collaborate within a multi-disciplinary research environment consisting of quantum computing experts, computational scientists, and condensed matter physics to link models and algorithms with innovative materials simulations.
• Author peer-reviewed papers for internal and external release as well as represent the organization via technical presentations in workshops and conferences.

• Ph.D. in physics, computer science, or a field relevant to the job duties within the past 5 years.
• Strong background in quantum computing and quantum algorithms.
• Background in quantum many-body theory for condensed matter systems.
• Experience in the development of quantum algorithms to study model Hamiltonians.

• Experience with error-corrected methods for fault-tolerant quantum computing.
• Experience with common quantum programming languages.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary research environment.
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills, a proven publication record, and effective interpersonal skills.

Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.

Please submit two letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent Postdoc recruitment with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.

Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:

• Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
• View Profile
• Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need…