... data science). You will Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national ... Knowledge of topological quantum field theories, topological band theory. * Strong analytic ...
... data science). You will Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national ... Knowledge of topological quantum field theories, topological band theory. * Strong analytic ...
... data science). You will Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national ... Knowledge of topological quantum field theories, topological band theory. * Strong analytic ...
... data science). You will Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national ... Knowledge of topological quantum field theories, topological band theory. * Strong analytic ...
Topological Data Analysis information
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in topological data analysis, and why are they important?
To thrive in Topological Data Analysis, you need a strong background in mathematics (especially algebraic topology), statistical analysis, and data science, often supported by an advanced degree in math, computer science, or a related field. Proficiency with programming languages like Python or R, and familiarity with topological data analysis (TDA) tools such as GUDHI or Ripser, are highly valuable. Critical thinking, curiosity, and effective communication help you translate complex topological findings into actionable insights for interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate interpretation of complex data shapes and facilitate meaningful contributions to projects in fields like bioinformatics, finance, or machine learning.
What is a topological data analysis?
A Topological Data Analysis (TDA) job involves applying concepts from topology, a branch of mathematics, to analyze and extract insights from complex data. Professionals in this field use techniques like persistent homology and mapper algorithms to uncover hidden structures in high-dimensional datasets. They often work in industries such as bioinformatics, finance, and machine learning, helping to interpret data patterns that traditional methods might miss. TDA specialists typically have expertise in mathematics, data science, and programming, using tools like Python, R, and specialized libraries such as Gudhi or Ripser.
How does topological data analysis typically collaborate with other departments or teams within an organization?
Professionals working in Topological Data Analysis often collaborate closely with data scientists, domain experts, and software engineers to translate abstract topological results into practical solutions. You may contribute to interdisciplinary research, provide insights during project planning meetings, and help interpret complex data structures uncovered through TDA methods. Regular communication and collaborative problem-solving are essential, as you’ll frequently explain technical concepts to non-specialists and incorporate their feedback into analysis workflows. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and ensures that TDA findings are effectively integrated into broader analytical and business strategies.

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Quantum Information Science
Oak Ridge, TN • On-site
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 21 days ago
Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating
8.8
Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
14th of 120 rated laboratories
Job description
Overview:
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work at the intersection of tensor networks, quantum algorithms, scientific computing, topological physics, and quantum hardware. As part of our team, you will perform research to develop new scalable quantum simulation algorithms, based on multi-linear representation theory, and apply them to real world applications spanning qubit engineering to quantum algorithmic analysis to applications across the physical sciences (condensed-matter or high energy physics, data science). You will Interpret, report, and present research concepts and results to national audiences.
This position resides within the Quantum Computational Science Group in the Computational Sciences and Engineering Division (CSED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). CSED performs transdisciplinary computational science and analytics at scale to produce advancements in physical sciences, engineering, and biomedicine and health. The Quantum Computational Science group addresses this mission through the development of quantum computational methods and software for diverse scientific applications.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
- Conduct research in mathematical representations of quantum states and processes, develop algorithms, and produce open-source scientific software
- Write peer-reviewed scientific articles and present research findings at major scientific conferences
- Collaborate with ORNL staff scientists and external collaborators
- Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service
Basic Qualifications:
- A Ph.D. degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related discipline.
- A strong foundation in linear algebra (tensor networks and beyond) and quantum physics
- Familiar with programming languages and scientific computing
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with low-rank linear algebraic approximation methods.
- Experience with quantum algorithms (other than variational or adiabatic) and/or quantum hardware
- Knowledge of topological quantum field theories, topological band theory.
- Strong analytic mathematical skills.
- Experience in multiple scientific programming languages (Python, Julia, Fortran, C++, AI etc.)
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
- Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
Special Requirements:
Postdocs: Applicants cannot have received their Ph.D. more than five years prior to the date of application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.
Letters of Recommendation: 2 of references are required. Please submit two letters of reference when applying to this position. You may upload these directly to your application or have them sent to postdocrecruitment@ornl.gov with the position title and number referenced in the subject line.
Instructions to upload documents to your candidate profile:
- Login to your account via jobs.ornl.gov
- View Profile
- Under the My Documents section, select Add a Document
Benefits at ORNL:
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people. The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.
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About Oak Ridge National Laboratory
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Industry
Scientific research and development services
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Oak Ridge, TN, US
Year founded
1943