Senior Research Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Description

We invite applications for postdoctoral associate or research associate positions in theoretical Quantum Information Science in the Physics Department of Virginia Tech.
The focus of these positions will be on quantum computing and quantum simulation, quantum networks, and quantum control. There will also be an opportunity to test theoretical results on cloud quantum processors.
The successful candidates will join a vibrant research environment in the quantum information groups of Profs. Sophia Economou and Edwin Barnes at Virginia Tech. 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. Our group is part of the DOE Quantum Center "Codesign for quantum advantage" (https://www.bnl.gov/quantumcenter/), and there will be opportunities for collaboration with the researchers of the center. The Postdoctoral and Senior Research Associate positions will also involve opportunities for travel to present in conferences and to collaborate with other groups. Postdoctoral and Senior Research Associates will conduct research in the above areas and disseminate results in journal publications and conference presentations. Senior Research Associates will have additional responsibilities with mentoring the junior group members and potentially assisting the PIs with grant management.

Required Qualifications

- Postdoctoral associate applicants must hold a Ph.D. in either Quantum Information Science, Theoretical Condensed Matter, AMO Physics or a closely related field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining. A strong background in Quantum Mechanics and programming skills are necessary.
- Senior research associate applicants must have a Ph.D. in either Quantum Information Science, Theoretical Condensed Matter, AMO Physics or a closely related field. Prior postdoctoral experience. A strong background in Quantum Mechanics and programming skills are necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of concepts and techniques from Quantum Information Science are preferred. Experience with Python and Mathematica is preferred.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Hours per week

40

Review Date

01/15/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

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.