Undergrad Research Assistant

Fermilab; City of Batavia (NY); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

The Theory Division at Fermilab seeks an Undergraduate Research Assistant to focus on simulating lattice field theories on quantum computers. The role involves collaborating with staff across STEM and computing to tackle project-based tasks and research questions.

Responsibilities include running quantum simulations, evaluating error correction/mitigation methods, and working both independently and in small teams. Compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations is required.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled as an undergraduate student with some research or technical experience.
• Ideal candidates study physics, mathematics, chemistry, or computer science.
• Eligible to work in United States.

Responsibilities

• Assist on project-based tasks with staff in STEM and computing.
• Investigate and propose solutions to technical and scientific problems.
• Perform simulations of quantum simulations of lattice field theories.
• Develop error correction and mitigation methods to extend device reach.
• Performs duties as assigned by supervisor and adheres to EH&S regulations.

Skills

Python

Qiskit

Error mitigation

Lattice field theory

Team research

Education

Undergraduate student

Tools

Qiskit

Python

Job description

The expected hiring range for this position is: $15.00-$25.00.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

We are only considering candidates who participated in the 2026 Quantum Computing Internship for Physics Undergraduates (QCIPU) program.

About the Role:

The Theory Division at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (known as Fermilab ) seeks a highly qualified candidate for an Undergraduate Research Assistant focusing on the simulation of lattice field theories on quantum computers.

What your day-to-day as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at Fermilab will look like:

• Works alongside staff specializing in scientific, technology, engineering, math, or computing and accelerator science to provide technical assistance on project-based tasks and/or research.
• Investigates, defines, and proposes solutions to assigned technical and scientific problems.
• Perform simulations of quantum simulations of lattice field theories.
• Develop methods for error correction and mitigation to extend the physics reach of current and near-term devices.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Abides by and is responsible for performing all duties in accordance with all environmental, health and safety regulations and practices pertinent to this position.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Must be enrolled in an accredited university or college as an undergraduate student and hold some research or technical experience.
• Ideal candidate currently studying in one of the following fields of study: physics, mathematics, chemistry, or computer science.
• Should be eligible to work in United States.

Applicable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

• Experience with Python and QISKIT.
• Familiarity with methods of error correction and mitigation for quantum computation.
• Familiarity with lattice field theory.
• Ability to perform research both in both an individual and small team setting.

Why Fermilab:

Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations around the world, including deep underground mines in South Dakota and Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, CERN in Europe and the South Pole.

Pre-Employment Screening:

Drug-Free Workplace & Pre-Employment Screening

Fermilab is dedicated to fostering a safe, productive and drug-free environment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

HSPD-12

In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a federal background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.

Foreign Government Sponsored Activities

Fermilab employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. Such individuals will be asked to disclose any participation for review by Fermilab's Office of General Counsel.

REAL-ID Requirement for access to Fermilab Campus

Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL-ID, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of ID can be found here: https://get-connected.fnal.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/REALID-Documents.pdf . If a candidate is selected for an interview but does not possess any of the equivalent documents, we may schedule a virtual interview.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.