Computational Physicist (PhD)

MixMode; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Significant equity

High-impact scientific problems

Culture of rigor and intellectual ownership

Job summary

MixMode is seeking a computational physicist in San Francisco, CA, who will develop innovative physics-based algorithms for molecular and materials simulation. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in a related field and possess strong programming skills in C++ and Python, as well as a deep understanding of quantum and statistical mechanics. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on fundamental scientific problems and contribute to impactful projects in a collaborative technical environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemical physics or a closely related field is required.
• Deep understanding of quantum and statistical mechanics.
• Proven experience in developing mathematical or computational models.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy new physics-based models and algorithms.
• Engage in analytical and mathematical work.
• Write high-performance C++ and Python code.
• Own projects end-to-end, from concept to deployment.
• Collaborate within a cross-disciplinary team.

Skills

C++

Python

Analytical reasoning

Scientific programming

Education

PhD in chemical physics, applied physics, high-energy physics, mathematics or a related field

Tools

OpenMP

MPI

CUDA

Triton

Job description

Job Description

We're looking for a computational physicist to develop new physics-based algorithms for molecular and materials simulation, combining deep analytical reasoning with high-performance scientific computing.

What You'll Do

• Develop and deploy new physics-based models and algorithms for molecular and materials simulations
• Spend significant time on analytical and mathematical work: deriving methods, testing approximations, and validating theory
• Write high-performance C++ and Python code, often with parallel or accelerator-based approaches
• Own projects end-to-end, from concept and theory through prototyping, scaling, and deployment
• Collaborate closely within a small, highly technical, cross-disciplinary team

Who You Are

• PhD in chemical physics, applied physics, high-energy physics, mathematics, or a closely related field
• Deep understanding of quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics
• Proven experience developing new mathematical or computational models
• Strong analytical skills paired with practical scientific programming ability
• Proficient in C++ and/or Python; experience with OpenMP, MPI, CUDA, or Triton is a plus

Why Azulene Labs

• Fundamental, high-impact scientific problems with real-world consequences
• Significant equity as an early technical hire
• Culture that rewards rigor, curiosity, and intellectual ownership