OverviewThe Physical and Computational Sciences Directorate (PCSD) researchers lead major R&D efforts in experimental and theoretical interfacial chemistry, chemical analysis, high energy physics, interfacial catalysis, multifunctional materials, and integrated high-performance and data-intensive computing.
PCSD is PNNL’s primary steward for research supported by the Department of Energy’s Offices of Basic Energy Sciences, Advanced Scientific Computing Research, and Nuclear Physics, all within the Department of Energy's Office of Science.
Additionally, Directorate staff perform research and development for private industry and other government agencies, such as the Department of Defense and NASA. The Directorate's researchers are members of interdisciplinary teams tackling challenges of national importance that cut across all missions of the Department of Energy.
ResponsibilitiesPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), in partnership with experts from universities, industry, and national laboratories, is actively engaged in exploring and developing quantum computing algorithms. These algorithms are designed to tackle complex challenges in chemistry, nonlinear transport, and power grid optimization where traditional computing methods may encounter significant computational barriers.
In line with our commitment to advancing quantum information sciences, PNNL is searching for a future scientific leader to spearhead the development of innovative quantum algorithms for applications to quantum simulation, differential equations, and the development of foundational tools such as quantum signal processing. This role presents a rare opportunity to expand our quantum computing portfolio towards scalable quantum computing in close collaboration with a diverse community of domain scientists at PNNL.
We are looking for an early-career scientist to join our team in the Physical Sciences Division at PNNL. The successful candidate will play a vital role in developing and implementing quantum algorithms for chemistry, nonlinear transport, and power grid optimization. This position will require active collaboration with domain scientists and the computer science staff in the high-performance computing group at PNNL. The position is based at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) campus in Richland, Washington.
What you will do:
- Develop and implement quantum algorithms, including those for simulations of the time evolution of chemical systems and solving differential equations.
- Conduct research and collaborate with other team members in a multi-institutional team.
- Lead the manuscript development and maintain a strong overall publication record in the peer-reviewed scientific literature.
- Present research at technical conferences and project/program review meetings.
- Interact, communicate, and problem solve with the research staff within the multi-institutional collaboration.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
- BS/BA and 2 years of relevant experience -OR-
- MS/MA -OR-
- PhD
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in quantum information sciences or related fields.
- Programming skills (C++, CUDA, Python)
- Proficiency in utilizing quantum simulators (Qiskit, Cirq, OpenFermion, or others)
- Strong verbal and written communications skills.
- Work effectively with multi-disciplinary teams.
- Adapt to new requirements for projects and research needs.
- Train and mentor others.
Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentNot applicable
Additional InformationNot applicable
Testing Designated PositionThis is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP)
About PNNLPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.
Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment OpportunityOur laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.
Drug Free WorkplacePNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.
If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.
HSPD-12 PIV Credential RequirementIn accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
Mandatory RequirementsPlease be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.
Rockstar RewardsEmployees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, supplemental parental bonding leave**, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401k savings plan. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.
* Research Associates excluded.
**Once eligibility requirements are met.
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Notice to ApplicantsPNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.
As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.
Minimum SalaryUSD $96,000.00/Yr.
Maximum SalaryUSD $144,000.00/Yr.
