Postdoctoral Research Associate, Quantum Information Science

Overview

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work at the intersection of tensor networks, quantum algorithms, scientific computing, topological physics, and quantum hardware. As part of our team, you will perform research to develop new scalable quantum simulation algorithms, based on multi-linear representation theory, and apply them to real-world applications spanning qubit engineering to quantum algorithmic analysis to applications across the physical sciences (condensed‑matter or high energy physics, data science).

You will interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national.

This position resides within the Quantum Computational Science Group in the Computational Sciences and Engineering Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. CSED performs transdisciplinary computational science and analytics at scale to produce advancements in physical sciences, engineering, and biomedicine and health. The Quantum Computational Science group addresses this mission through the development of quantum computational methods and software for diverse scientific applications.

• Conduct research in mathematical representations of quantum states and processes, develop algorithms, and produce open-source scientific software
• Write peer‑reviewed scientific articles and present research findings at major scientific conferences
• Collaborate with ORNL staff scientists and external collaborators
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service

• A Ph.D. degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A strong foundation in linear algebra (tensor networks and beyond) and quantum physics
• Familiar with programming languages and scientific computing

• Experience working with low‑rank linear algebraic approximation methods.
• Experience with quantum algorithms (other than variational or adiabatic) and/or quantum hardware
• Knowledge of topological quantum field theories, topological band theory.
• Strong analytic mathematical skills.
• Experience in multiple scientific programming languages (Python, Julia, Fortran, C++, AI etc.)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated self‑starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in 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 ever changing needs.

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy 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 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 to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain…