Postdoctoral Research Associate, Quantum Information Science

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement plans

Flexible work hours

On-site fitness and cafeteria facilities

Job summary

A prestigious research laboratory in Oak Ridge, TN is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on quantum algorithms and tensor networks. The role involves conducting research to develop new quantum simulation algorithms, collaborating with scientists, and publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals. Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline, have a strong foundation in linear algebra and quantum physics, and be proficient in programming languages. The position offers competitive pay and a variety of employee benefits.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Experience in multiple scientific programming languages (Python, Julia, Fortran, C++, AI etc.).

Responsibilities

• 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 conferences.

Skills

Strong foundation in linear algebra

Familiarity with programming languages

Strong analytic mathematical skills

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or related discipline

Tools

Python

Julia

Fortran

C++

Job description

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.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• 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

Basic Qualifications

• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, a Real ID compliant 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 employment. Once you meet the three‑year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

Special Requirements

Postdocs: 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.

Benefits at ORNL

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people. The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience. Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT‑Battelle is an E‑Verify employer.