Computational Scientist, Quantum Energy Systems

Praxis, Inc.; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Pronoia Energy in Torrance, California is seeking a Computational Scientist to drive simulation-driven decision making. You will simulate materials at atomic and molecular scales using density functional theory, molecular dynamics, and finite-element modeling, accelerating the experimental loop.

You will collaborate with physicists and chemists, define simulation workflows, and translate results into actionable experiments, helping accelerate progress toward practical quantum energy storage

Qualifications

• PhD-level depth in computational materials science, condensed-matter physics, or computational chemistry.
• Strong production coding in Python or C++ and fluency with real simulation packages.
• A track record of connecting simulation to actual experimental outcomes, not only publications.
• Comfort defining a function from scratch and excitement about the quantum-materials frontier.
• A self-starter who thrives amid ambiguity and rapid iteration.

Responsibilities

• Build and run atomic- and molecular-scale simulations of our materials and candidate structures.
• Connect simulation results to real experimental decisions, and validate models against measured data.
• Establish the tools, methods, and standards for simulation across the company.
• Collaborate tightly with the experimental teams who generate ground-truth data.
• Provide data-driven insight that informs each design iteration.

Skills

Python

C++

Simulation packages

Education

PhD in computational materials science / condensed-matter physics / computational chemistry

Tools

High-performance computing

Parallel computing

Job description

Company Overview

Pronoia Energy is a pioneering deep tech startup at the forefront of quantum energy storage innovation. As a lean, mission-driven team, we thrive on rapid prototyping, cross-disciplinary collaboration and solving complex engineering challenges to turn quantum physics into practical, scalable products. Our current focus is on developing our groundbreaking room-temperature macroscopic quantum energy storage technology that promises orders of magnitude greater energy density, faster charging, and higher power delivery as well as being cheaper and safer compared to existing battery technology. This represents a paradigm shift in energy storage with applications spanning consumer electronics, electric vehicles, renewable grids, and beyond.

Role Summary

To meet our ambitious goals we are hiring a Computational Scientist to let us test ideas before we build them, dramatically accelerating our progress. This is a foundational role in a high-stakes, high-reward startup environment, and because our materials function is still taking shape, you will help define how Pronoia does simulation. In this role you will simulate how our materials behave at the atomic and molecular scale, using methods such as density functional theory, molecular dynamics, and finite-element modeling. Because our entire strategy depends on running the experimental loop faster than anyone else, every experiment your simulations replace or guide is days or weeks saved. You will work closely with our experimental physicists and chemists, turning simulation into real experimental decisions and validating your models against measured reality. This role is onsite in Torrance, California.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and run atomic- and molecular-scale simulations of our materials and candidate structures.
• Connect simulation results to real experimental decisions, and validate models against measured data.
• Establish the tools, methods, and standards for simulation across the company.
• Collaborate tightly with the experimental teams who generate ground-truth data.
• Provide data-driven insight that informs each design iteration.

Required Qualifications

• PhD-level depth in computational materials science, condensed-matter physics, or computational chemistry.
• Strong production coding in Python or C++ and fluency with real simulation packages.
• A track record of connecting simulation to actual experimental outcomes, not only publications.
• Comfort defining a function from scratch and excitement about the quantum-materials frontier.
• A self-starter who thrives amid ambiguity and rapid iteration.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience simulating battery materials, electrodes, or quantum materials.
• A record of turning simulations into decisions that changed an experiment.
• Familiarity with high-performance and parallel computing for large simulations.
• Prior work in deep tech R&D alongside interdisciplinary teams.

What We Offer

• Chance to solve one of the world's biggest engineering challenges and pioneer quantum energy storage.
• Competitive salary, equity in a transformative startup, and performance-based incentives.
• Access to cutting-edge labs, tools, and resources in a flexible, collaborative work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits: health insurance, unlimited PTO, professional development stipend, and relocation assistance if needed.
• A culture of innovation where your work will accelerate our path to market impact.