Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Research Scientist 1

Q: What qualifications do I need to apply for the Research Scientist 1 role?

This position requires a Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field and at least two years of postdoctoral research experience . You must have a strong background in theoretical and computational physics , with demonstrated ability to transition methods such as machine learning and numerical optimization across research domains. Preferred qualifications include experience with quantum computing , quantum information science , quantum photonics , and a strong record of peer-reviewed publications . If you are building your research profile, explore postdoctoral research roles .

Q: What are the main research areas and day-to-day duties?

The role focuses on machine-learning-assisted design and AI-driven optimization of quantum systems . You will perform theoretical and computational analysis of quantum photonic/hardware systems , implement research methodology based on outcomes, author and co-author peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers, and present findings at lab meetings, seminars, and conferences. You may also provide technical guidance to graduate students , UROP students , and postdoctoral researchers . Browse related research jobs for more opportunities.

Q: Is visa sponsorship available for international applicants?

Yes, visa sponsorship is available for this Research Scientist 1 position. International applicants who meet the Ph.D. in Physics and postdoctoral experience requirements are encouraged to apply. For broader guidance on research scientist roles, see how to become a university scientist .

Q: What salary and benefits can I expect?

The posted pay range is $72,000 – $92,000 annually. This is a full-time exempt position with visa sponsorship available . Occasional travel for conferences may be required, but no regular travel is expected. For more salary context across higher education, visit professor salaries .

Q: How should I prepare my application for this quantum AI research role?

Highlight your peer-reviewed publications , especially in quantum computing , quantum photonics , or AI-driven optimization . Emphasize your ability to transfer machine learning and numerical optimization methods across research domains. Use a focused academic CV and review how to write a winning academic CV , then prepare with research scientist interview questions and tips .

Closes: Oct 27, 2026

Salary: $72,000 – $92,000 per year

1,161

Job Details

Job Number: 25924
Functional Area: Research - Engineering
Department: Research Laboratory of Electronics
School Area: VP Research
Pay Range Minimum: $72,000
Pay Range Maximum: $92,000
Employment Type: Full-Time
Employment Category: Exempt
Visa Sponsorship Available: Yes
Pay Grade: No Grade

Posting Description

RESEARCH SCIENTIST 1, Research Laboratory of Electronics, participates and may contribute the design, development, and execution of research projects on machine-learning-assisted design and AI-driven optimization of quantum systems, in collaboration with the broader research team. In collaboration with PI, conducts theoretical and computational analysis of quantum photonic/hardware systems; interprets and implements research methodology based on analysis outcomes; authors and co-authors research results for peer-reviewed journals and conferences; prepares and presents findings at lab meetings, seminars, and research conferences; prepares periodic progress reports on research project phases for sponsors. May provide technical guidance to graduate students, UROP students, and postdoctoral researchers on projects related to AI-assisted quantum system design.

Job Requirements

REQUIRED: Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field; a minimum of two years of postdoctoral research experience; strong background in theoretical and computational physics, with demonstrated ability to transition methods (e.g., machine learning, numerical optimization) across research domains. PREFERRED: Experience with quantum computing, quantum information science, or quantum photonics; experience applying machine-learning or AI-driven optimization methods to physical/engineering systems; or strong record of peer-reviewed publications.

No regular travel required; occasional travel for conferences

Job details

Title: Research Scientist 1
Employer: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Location: Cambridge, MA, USA
Published: Aug 28, 2026
Closes:: Oct 27, 2026
Job type: Full time, Staff / Administration
Field: Other Administrative Positions
Salary: Salary: $72,000 – $92,000 per year

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need to apply for the Research Scientist 1 role?

This position requires a Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field and at least two years of postdoctoral research experience. You must have a strong background in theoretical and computational physics, with demonstrated ability to transition methods such as machine learning and numerical optimization across research domains. Preferred qualifications include experience with quantum computing, quantum information science, quantum photonics, and a strong record of peer-reviewed publications. If you are building your research profile, explore postdoctoral research roles.

🔬What are the main research areas and day-to-day duties?

The role focuses on machine-learning-assisted design and AI-driven optimization of quantum systems. You will perform theoretical and computational analysis of quantum photonic/hardware systems, implement research methodology based on outcomes, author and co-author peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers, and present findings at lab meetings, seminars, and conferences. You may also provide technical guidance to graduate students, UROP students, and postdoctoral researchers. Browse related research jobs for more opportunities.

🌍Is visa sponsorship available for international applicants?

Yes, visa sponsorship is available for this Research Scientist 1 position. International applicants who meet the Ph.D. in Physics and postdoctoral experience requirements are encouraged to apply. For broader guidance on research scientist roles, see how to become a university scientist.

💰What salary and benefits can I expect?

The posted pay range is $72,000 – $92,000 annually. This is a full-time exempt position with visa sponsorship available. Occasional travel for conferences may be required, but no regular travel is expected. For more salary context across higher education, visit professor salaries.

📝How should I prepare my application for this quantum AI research role?

Highlight your peer-reviewed publications, especially in quantum computing, quantum photonics, or AI-driven optimization. Emphasize your ability to transfer machine learning and numerical optimization methods across research domains. Use a focused academic CV and review how to write a winning academic CV, then prepare with research scientist interview questions and tips.

About the employer

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

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