Quantum Algorithms Postdoctoral Fellow

About the role

The Applied Mathematics and Computational Research Division has an opening in the Scalable Solvers Group for a Quantum Algorithms Postdoctoral Fellow under the Quantum Computing for Computational Chemistry (QC³) program. You will conduct research on the development of quantum subspace algorithms for superconducting materials discovery and perform experimental validation on neutral atom-based QPUs.

Responsibilities

• Develop efficient and scalable Krylov-inspired quantum subspace methods
• Design, compile, and optimize quantum circuits for execution on neutral atom-based QPUs
• Develop and evaluate partial quantum error correction and error mitigation techniques compatible with current and emerging quantum hardware
• Collaborate in a multidisciplinary research environment with mathematicians, computer scientists, physicists, and domain scientists
• Disseminate research findings through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at leading conferences

Requirements

• Ph.D. degree in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Computational Chemistry, Physics, or a relevant field
• Demonstrated research experience in the development of quantum algorithms, preferably for quantum chemistry or materials science applications
• Strong background in numerical linear algebra, including matrix decompositions, iterative methods, approximation theory, and optimization
• Experience in compiling quantum algorithms and executing experiments on quantum hardware
• Demonstrated track record of scientific writing evidenced by first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of hire; visa sponsorship is not available

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of randomized numerical linear algebra and randomized algorithms
• Experience with performance optimization of scientific software
• Proficiency in scientific programming using MATLAB/Python/Qiskit and MPI/OpenMP/CUDA

Pay & Schedule

• This is a full-time, 2-year postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs
• Salary range: $8,570 - $9,935 per month, starting at $8,570 or above; salaries are paid on a step schedule per union contract, predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates (each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience)
• Anticipated start date: October 1, 2026
• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA (REAL ID or other acceptable identification required for site access)
• Priority consideration for applications received by September 1, 2026; applications accepted until posting is removed
• Not eligible for relocation assistance
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes
• Subject to a background check; convictions will be evaluated case-by-case and do not automatically disqualify applicants

Benefits

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits
• A culture where you'll belong — we are invested in our teams
• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)
• Pet insurance