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Quantum Computing - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL

Livermore, CA

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JOB DETAILS
SALARY
SKILLS
Algorithms, Analysis Skills, Background Investigation, C++ Programming Language, Communication Skills, Computer Hardware, Computer Systems, Conferences, Cross-Functional, Cyber Investigation, Differential Equations, Environmental Research, Fortran Programming Language, Group Theory, Information Science, Information Theory, Interpersonal Skills, Legal, MATLAB, Material Science, Physics, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Publications, Python Programming/Scripting Language, Quantum Computing, Reimbursement, Research Skills, Scripting (Scripting Languages), Seminars, Simulation, Systems Analysis, Team Player, Technical Presentation, Transpiler, United States Citizen, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Livermore, CA
POSTED
Today
Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

Job Description

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to perform theoretical and computational research in the field of quantum computing focusing on Fusion Energy Science (FES) and quantum materials science applications. You will join an interdisciplinary team of experts in fusion energy, quantum information science, quantum materials science, and quantum computing hardware that are working to develop, implement, and demonstrate the performance of quantum algorithms relevant to FES. You will develop new quantum algorithms for FES applications, numerical simulations that characterize the performance of these algorithms, and implementations of these algorithms for cutting-edge quantum computing hardware platforms, including several state-of-the-art quantum computing hardware platforms that we have access to. This position is in the Fusion Energy Sciences Section's Theory and Modeling group within the Physics Division.

This position may offer a hybrid schedule, which includes the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week, after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule, including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options may vary based on the needs of the team and the organization.

You will
  • Conduct research on the development of quantum algorithms for FES applications such as solvers for quantum lattice Hamiltonian models and partial differential equations.
  • Develop efficient quantum algorithms and simulate the performance of these algorithms on present-day quantum computing platforms.
  • Implement quantum algorithms on available quantum computing platforms and collect experimental results of these calculations.
  • Interpret and compare the results of calculations performed on quantum hardware to theoretical expectations and simulations.
  • Contribute to and actively participate in the conception, design, and execution of research to address defined problems.
  • Collaborate with others in a multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish research goals.
  • Pursue independent and complementary research interests and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists internally and externally to the Laboratory.
  • Organize, analyze, and publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present results at conferences, workshops, seminars, and technical meetings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details.
  • PhD in Physics or related discipline.
  • Experience developing and applying theoretical and computational models to the simulation of both quantum and classical physical systems and analyzing and interpreting the results of the models.
  • Experience developing quantum algorithms, working with quantum computing hardware platforms, and/or quantum error correction.
  • Ability to perform independent research and find innovative solutions to scientific and technical problems as demonstrated through publication of peer-reviewed literature.
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills needed to effectively present and explain technical information.
  • Initiative and interpersonal skills necessary to collaborate effectively in a multi-disciplinary team environment.
Qualifications We Desire
  • Programming proficiency in Python, C++, Fortran, Matlab, and/or other relevant programming and scripting languages.
  • Knowledge of quantum compiler/transpiler languages such as circ, qiskit, QuTip, and/or T-ket.
  • Expertise in quantum algorithms, quantum information theory, quantum computing hardware platforms, error mitigation, and quantum error correction.
  • Knowledge of advanced theoretical and numerical methods for the simulation of both quantum and classical physical systems.
Pay Range

$123,048 Annually

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. Many factors are taken into consideration when setting starting pay including education, experience, the external labor market, and internal equity.

Additional Information

#LI-Hybrid

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
  • Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
  • Flexible Benefits Package
  • 401(k)
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
  • Our values - visit

Security Clearance

None required. However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position. To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

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