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Postdoctoral Research Associate, Quantum Information Science

CHEManager International, Oak Ridge, TN, United States


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 multilinear 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 audiences.

This position resides within the Quantum Computational Science Group in the Computational Sciences and Engineering Division (CSED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). 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.

Familiarity 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.

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.

Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of reference are required. Please submit two letters of reference when applying to this position.

Equal‑Opportunity Employer
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.

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