Theoretical Quantum Information Postdoc

University of New Mexico; Albuquerque (NM); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of New Mexico’s Quantum New Mexico Institute (QNM-I) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in theoretical quantum information science (QIS). The two-year appointment aims to advance research in quantum computation, control, and communication within the FRHTP hub network.

Successful candidates will pursue independent research under QNM‑I faculty, collaborate with Sandia/Los Alamos, and contribute to seminars, workshops, and training activities, with a starting salary of

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in Quantum Information by the start date.
• Demonstrated record of research in Quantum Information Science theory.
• Ability to work with QNM-I faculty and partner institutions.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and student success.

Responsibilities

• Pursue independent lines of research in QIS theory at QNM‑I.
• Collaborate with QNM‑I faculty and partner institutions (e.g., Sandia, LANL).
• Participate in theory-hub activities, seminars and SQuInT-related events.

Skills

Demonstrated research in QIS theory

Collaboration with partners

Commitment to diversity & inclusion

Education

PhD in Quantum Information

Job description

Post Doctoral Fellow - QNM-I

Posting Number	req38011
Employment Type	Faculty
Faculty Type	Visiting
Hiring Department	QNM-I (487A)
Academic Location	Vice President for Research
Campus	Main - Albuquerque, NM
Benefits Eligible	Postdoctoral Fellows may be eligible to receive certain UNM benefits . See the Benefits home page for more information.
Position Summary	The Quantum New Mexico Institute (QNM-I) at the University of New Mexico invites applications for Postdoctoral Fellowships in theoretical quantum information science (QIS) as part of the National Science Foundation’s Focused Research Hub in Theoretical Physics (FRHTP). QNM-I is an interdisciplinary QIS research center, with participating faculty from physics & astronomy, chemistry, electrical & computer engineering, computer science. The research at the QNM-I covers a broad range of foundational and applied investigations on topics including quantum computation, control, measurement, communication, and simulation. The QNM-I is an active participant in several multi-institutional centers, launched under the National Quantum Initiative (NQI), including the NSF Quantum Leap Challenge Institute, “Quantum Systems through Entangled Science and Engineering” (Q-SEnSE), and the DOE “Quantum Systems Accelerator” (QSA). As a QIS theory-hub, QNM-I brings together community through hosting visitors, seminars, hot-topics workshops, and as the scientific home of the well-known Southwest Quantum Information and Technology (SQuInT) network. FRHTP Postdoctoral Fellows will have the opportunity to pursue independent lines of research, to work with QNM-I faculty members, and to interact with leading researchers at the QNM-I’s partner institutions, including nearby Sandia National Laboratories, Los Alamos National Laboratory, industrial partner Honeywell Quantum Solutions, and collaborators at the Q-SEnSE and QSA NQI Centers. Fellows also participate in QNM-I theory-hub activities, including hot-topics workshops and SQuInT. A successful applicant must have completed all requirements for a Ph.D. in a discipline related to QIS by the time of employment. Candidates should have: (i) a demonstrated record of accomplishment in QIS and potential for research accomplishment at QNM-I; (ii) potential to contribute to center-wide research-training and FRHTP “hub activities”; (iii) potential to work productively with QNM-I faculty and partners; (iv) specific interest in QNM-I research areas; and (v) a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and student success, as well as working with broadly diverse communities. The initial term of appointment is two years with the possibility of extension to a third year, with a starting salary of $80,958.00 per year plus benefits and a substantial stipend for domestic and international travel and other expenses. Located in the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Center has contributed to research and education in quantum information theory for over 25 years. Albuquerque offers a rich cultural environment in a low cost-of-living city, with beautiful weather, hiking, nearby skiing, and other many other outdoor activities. Review of applications will commence in mid-October 2026, but applications will be considered until the positions are filled.
Qualifications	Minimum Qualifications: PHD or equivalent in Quantum Information by the start date of appointment Preferred Qualifications: Demonstrated record of research accomplishment in Quantum Information Science theory. Potential for research accomplishment as a postdoctoral fellow at the QNM-I. Potential to contribute to center-wide research training and QNM-I theory hub activities. Potential to work productively with QNM-I faculty and partners institutions. Specific interest in QNM-I research. A demonstrated commitment to cultivate an understanding of the rich and varied cultures of New Mexico and to the success of the university's mission to serve local and global communities.
Application Instructions	Only applications submitted throughthe official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this jobadvertisement on a 3rd party site, pleasevisit UNMJobs to submit an application. Applicants must submit an application for this position in UNM Jobs. Required documents include (1) a cover letter that clearly addresses the criteria for successful application as specified in the ad, along with the names, affiliations, and e‐mail addresses of three references; and (2) a detailed statement of interest containing a proposal for research as an QNM-I Postdoctoral Fellow. Applicants should also ask each of their references to submit a letter of recommendation to [e-mail] Applicants who are appointed to a UNM faculty position are required to provide an official certification of successful completion of all degree requirements prior to their initial employment with UNM.
For Best Consideration	For best consideration, please apply by 10/20/2026. This position will remain open until filled.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisionswithout regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or anyother protected class.