Postdoctoral Research Associate - Quantum Computing for Simulating Physical Systems

Los Alamos National Laboratory; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) invites applicants for positions in the Computing and Artificial Intelligence (CAI) Division to explore quantum computing applications for simulating complex physical systems. You will contribute to Hamiltonian simulation, quantum algorithm design, and applications in materials or relativistic quantum chemistry, leading and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.

The role emphasizes developing new algorithms, performing theoretical and computational

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in developing, analyzing, and improving quantum algorithms and their applications.
• Proficiency in Python or Julia for research coding and experiments.
• Proven ability to communicate research findings through publications, reports, or presentations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a diverse team of scientists.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct theoretical and computational studies in quantum computing.
• Develop and implement new quantum algorithms and simulations.
• Analyze results and disseminate findings through peer‑reviewed publications and scientific talks.

Skills

Quantum algorithms

Python

Julia

Scientific communication

Team collaboration

Job description

What You Will Do

The Computing and Artificial Intelligence (CAI) Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking highly motivated applicants to explore applications of quantum computing to the simulation of complex physical systems. The successful candidates will be part of a multidisciplinary team developing computational techniques and theoretical frameworks for (early) fault‑tolerant quantum computers, with an emphasis on Hamiltonian simulation, quantum algorithm design, and applications in either (A) materials simulation or (B) relativistic quantum chemistry. Successful applicants will focus on one of these target application areas; candidates are not expected to have expertise in both.

Our research goals are to connect advances in quantum algorithms with high-impact scientific applications. Research may include the development and analysis of Hamiltonian simulation methods, efficient representations of physical systems, quantum algorithm and circuit optimization, numerical benchmarking, and quantum resource estimation. Large‑scale classical simulation and machine‑learning techniques may also be used to develop, test, and validate these approaches.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to lead and collaborate on innovative projects, working closely with researchers in quantum computing, computational science, chemistry, and materials science. Responsibilities include designing and conducting theoretical and computational studies, developing and implementing new algorithms, analyzing results, and disseminating findings through peer‑reviewed publications and scientific presentations.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements

• Substantial experience in developing, analyzing, and improving quantum algorithms and their applications.
• Proficiency in high‑level programming languages such as Julia or Python.
• Proven ability to communicate research findings effectively, as evidenced by publications, reports, or presentations.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a diverse team of scientists.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with developing and implementing quantum computing simulation methods for physical systems.
• Demonstrated experience with machine learning, high‑performance computing, parallel programming, and GPU programming.
• Active Q clearance, or the ability to obtain a Q clearance.

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 engaging in strategic science on behalf of national security.

• 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)

Outstanding candidates may be considered for a Director's Postdoc Fellowship. For more information about the Postdoc Program, go to: https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php

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 requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre‑offer.

Internal Applicants

Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to [e-mail] or call (505)-664-6947.