"Quantum Systems Accelerator - Postdoctoral Scholar"

The National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC) at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab has an opening in the Advanced Technologies Group (ATG) for a Postdoctoral Scholar in support of the Quantum Systems Accelerator (QSA), one of the five Department of Energy Quantum Information Science (QIS) Research Centers.

The current project is focused on quantifying and measuring progress towards quantum computational utility by designing high-level benchmarks and performance models that help predict performance of a quantum computer for a set of challenge problems. The project will combine theoretical analysis, numerical simulations and validation on quantum hardware and will be a deeply collaborative effort as part of a multidisciplinary team.

You will:

• Develop novel simulation models for quantum computers systems that predict performance of quantum error correction (QEC) gadgets and schemes.
• Design performance models to predict the utility of quantum computers for target applications.
• Collaborate with theorists and experimentalists to validate models against experimental data.
• Investigate pathways for quantum-HPC deployments, including viability criteria and operational requirements.
• Publish scientific papers and give presentations.

We are looking for:

• Ph.D. degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Experience independently planning and completing projects.
• Relevant publication record and demonstration of proficient written and verbal presentation of scientific results.
• Knowledge of quantum information science related to one or more of the following responsibilities/research areas:
  • Modeling and simulation of quantum computer systems for predicting performance
  • Scalable methods for characterizing quantum computer performance on target applications
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and distributed team.
• Ability to prepare periodic updates (written and oral) for internal and external reviews or reports.
• Proficient with Python, Julia or other high-level programming languages.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Knowledgeable about contemporary approaches to quantum error correction and quantum resource estimation.
• Expertise with quantum - HPC integration.
• Knowledgeable about quantum computer architecture stacks.

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
• A culture where you'll belong - we are invested in our teams!
• In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)

Additional information:

• Appointment type: This is a full-time, 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• Salary range: The salary range for this position is $8,570.00 - $9,935.00 and is expected to start at $8,570.00 or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
• Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work modality: This position requires substantial on-site presence, but is eligible for a flexible work mode, and hybrid schedules may be considered. Hybrid work is a combination of performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA and some telework. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).
• Union Represented:This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• Export Control: This position will involve access to hardware, commodities, and technical information subject to export control regulations including, but not limited to, the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") and/or International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR"). Accordingly, any hiring decision may depend in part on Berkeley Lab's ability to obtain or rely on federal government authorizations as required, if you are not a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S. ("green card holder"), asylee, refugee, or other qualifying protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov