Post Masters RA - Materials Synthesis & Analytics

Protecting U.S. residents and visitors is among our nation’s highest priorities. As adversaries gain access to sophisticated technologies and materials, the threats grow more dynamic and complex—from cyber and nuclear to chemical and biological weapons of mass effect and other forms of terrorism. The PNNL national security mission employs our researchers, tools, and technologies to play a key role in advancing the ability to identify and secure nuclear materials, detect weapons of mass effect, manage nonproliferation treaties, secure our nation's borders, and protect critical infrastructures.  PNNL’s scientific discovery and capabilities—rooted in innovative theory, methods, algorithms, and tools—are enabling stronger, more resilient technologies and systems to safeguard national security. Coupled with decades of radiological and nuclear materials expertise, advanced computing and threat analysis capabilities, and a broad fundamental science base, we are identifying and countering emerging threats that have significant impact at home and around the globe.

Responsibilities

The Engineered Materials Group is seeking a Post Masters Research Associate with experience in quantum information science and scientific programming. The successful candidate is expected to play a vital role in developing, modeling, and implementing quantum algorithms for efforts in the field of Benchmarking and Quantum Certification. A strong background in quantum computing, quantum information processing, Quantum error correction, and numerical simulation is required for this role. This position will require active collaboration with domain scientists across PNNL and our university partners. We expect to publish and disseminate the outcomes of the work in highly visible, peer-reviewed venues, including conferences and journals.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidates must have received a Master’s degree within the past 24 months or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters in Physics, Mathematics, Data Science, or related field with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
• Programming proficiency in at least one programing language (e.g., Python for data analysis).
• Experience with Quantum Simulation environments (e.g. Qiskit or PennyLane).
• Evidence of verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with quantum transpilation to specific quantum hardware.
• Experience with quantum noise models.