Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Computing for Quantum Scattering in Plasmas

Los Alamos National Laboratory; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental and vision insurance

401(k) with matching

Paid parental leave

Tuition assistance

On-site gyms

Job summary

Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking candidates for a two-year position in quantum computing research within the Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics group. The successful applicant will develop algorithms for fusion energy and will collaborate with experts in fusion energy, atomic physics, and quantum computing. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in a STEM field and demonstrate expertise in quantum computing and physics, alongside a record of relevant publications. Excellent communication skills are essential. Benefits include comprehensive medical coverage and a competitive 401(k).

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in quantum computing and atomic/molecular physics.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
• Record of publications in relevant fields.

Responsibilities

• Develop quantum computing algorithms for fusion energy systems.
• Work with fusion energy scientists and physicists.
• Contribute to research in quantum scattering.

Skills

Quantum computing

Atomic/molecular physics

Quantum chemistry

Strong written and oral communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in a STEM field

Job description

What You Will Do

We are looking for candidates to join the Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics (T-5) group in Los Alamos National Laboratory's Theoretical Division. The group conducts research across fusion science, space plasma science, astrophysics, numerical analysis, machine learning, computational imaging, optimization, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, and modeling of critical infrastructure. The focus of this project is to develop quantum computing algorithms for quantum scattering in atomic and molecular systems expected in a fusion energy system, and to demonstrate these schemes on current quantum computers.

Project Responsibilities

Selected candidates will work with a team of fusion energy scientists, atomic physicists, and quantum computing scientists. The initial appointment is for two years, with a possible third year extension depending on performance and funding availability.

What You Need

• Demonstrated expertise in quantum computing, atomic/molecular physics, quantum chemistry, or quantum scattering.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment.
• Record of publications and presentations in applied mathematics, computational physics, plasma physics, or fusion science.

Education/Experience: Completion of a Ph.D. in a STEM field within the last five years or expected completion within the current academic year.

Desired Qualifications

• Quantum scattering theory and computation, particularly in atomic and molecular physics, and quantum chemistry.
• Quantum computing experience.
• Strong written and oral technical communication skills demonstrated by peer‑reviewed publications and professional presentations.
• Experience developing solutions for complex problems while collaborating with peers.

Work Location

Los Alamos, New Mexico.

Benefits

• PPO or high deductible medical insurance with a nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid maternity and parental leave.
• Award‑winning 401(k) with 6% matching and 3.5% annual contribution.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off.
• On‑site gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation package for moves outside a 50‑mile radius.

Eligibility and Security

U.S. citizenship is required. Eligibility for a security clearance must be confirmed as per NNSA Directive 206.2. The position does not require a clearance; selected candidates will undergo drug testing and background checks.

Equal Opportunity

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal laws and regulations. The Laboratory is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.