Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Virginia

Postdoctoral Associate
Job no: 534769
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Science
Department: Physics
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific
Job Description
We invite applications for a postdoctoral associate position in theoretical quantum information science in the Physics Department of Virginia Tech.
The successful candidate will work in areas related to quantum information theory, quantum error correction, and machine learning. The position will start in fall 2026 and will be for two years, with a possible 1-year extension pending availability of funding.
The successful candidate will join a vibrant group of graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and faculty in quantum information theory across multiple departments on campus at Virginia Tech and at the Virginia Tech Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering. There will be plenty of opportunities for collaboration with other members of the group and with some of the leading experimental and theory groups around the world.
Postdoctoral associate will conduct theoretical physics research in areas such as quantum information and quantum error correction. Expertise in reinforcement learning and/or tensor networks are preferred. Other responsibilities include communicating results in journal publications and conferences as well as mentoring junior members of the group. There will also involve opportunities for travel to present in conferences and to collaborate with other groups.
Required Qualifications
Postdoctoral associate applicants must hold a Ph.D. before the start date with a background in physics, computer science, or a closely related field. A strong background in quantum mechanics and programming skills are necessary.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of quantum error correction, tensor networks, and/or machine learning. Experience with programming and numerical methods is preferred.
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40 hours - exempt position
Review Date
02/01/2026
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
Cover letter (optional), a curriculum vitae, a research statement with no more than two pages, a list of publications. The applicant should also arrange three letters of reference to be sent to Prof. Cao at cjcao@vt.edu.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jackie Woodyard at woodyaj@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: December 15, 2025
Applications close:
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