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Research Associate (Quantum Chemistry, One Year Term)

Applications are closed

  • Job
    Full-time
    Junior & Mid Level
  • Science
    Research & Development
    Sustainability
  • Toronto

Requirements

  • MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Education – Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in quantum computing with a focus on quantum algorithms. Ph.D. must have been awarded in the past three years no earlier than 2022.
  • Experience – Candidate must have:
  • 2-3 years of postdoctoral experience in quantum computing with demonstrated academic and research excellence. The candidate should be able to highlight their ability to work independently, e.g., by single-author publications; experience presenting research, as evidenced through invited seminars.
  • Leading experience in the design and analysis of novel quantum algorithms for near-term and fault-tolerant quantum computers in quantum chemistry, partial differential equations, Hamiltonian simulation, and quantum linear algebra problems.
  • Evidence for experience with organizing scientific workshops/conferences or seminars in closely related topics.
  • Extensive mathematical skills and mastery in the theory of wavelets and multi-resolution analysis for quantum chemistry or scientific computation proven by prior related works.
  • Evidence for collaboration with a cross-functional team to analyze and optimize quantum algorithms, focusing on improving their performance for various applications.
  • Proven experience in writing research proposals; obtaining external grants; and mentoring graduate and/or undergraduate students.
  • Skills – Excellent in communicating effectively and efficiently in oral and written English. Collegial in working with team members and collaborators. Extensive coding skills in Python and Mathematica, and prior experience working with software and libraries for compiling and analyzing quantum algorithms, such as OpenFermion and Qiskit.
  • Other – The candidate must also have a strong publication record in recognized national and international journals and demonstrate success in writing and preparing manuscripts, presentations, reports, briefs, and scientific abstracts and manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and participate in designing, developing, and analyzing novel quantum algorithms for quantum chemistry, partial differential equations, Hamiltonian simulation, and quantum linear algebra problems.
  • Research and explore new approaches in quantum computation and quantum software development and adapt the procedures accordingly.
  • Collaborate with a cross-functional team to analyze and optimize quantum algorithms, focusing on improving their performance for various applications.
  • Liaising with collaborators and assisting in the compilation, analysis and reporting of research findings to researchers within and outside of the group.
  • Preparing manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed publications/journals.
  • Presenting findings at local, national and international conferences.
  • Assisting with research proposals to be submitted to granting agencies and progress reporting and participating in research supervision of two or more students or other trainees.
  • At all times, the individual will be expected to support the overall research and teaching missions of the Aspuru-Guzik group.

FAQs

What is the anticipated start date for the Research Associate position?

The anticipated start date for the Research Associate position is July 22, 2025.

What is the duration of the appointment?

The appointment is for a one-year term.

Where is the position located?

The position is located at the St. George campus in Downtown Toronto.

What educational qualifications are required for this position?

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in quantum computing, particularly focusing on quantum algorithms. The Ph.D. must have been awarded no earlier than 2022.

How many years of postdoctoral experience are required?

Candidates must have 2-3 years of postdoctoral experience in quantum computing.

What skills are necessary for this position?

Candidates should possess excellent communication skills in oral and written English, extensive coding skills in Python and Mathematica, and experience with software and libraries such as OpenFermion and Qiskit.

Is there an opportunity to collaborate with others in this role?

Yes, the candidate will collaborate with a cross-functional team to analyze and optimize quantum algorithms, as well as liaise with researchers both within and outside of the group.

What should be included in the application?

The application should include a cover letter, a research statement, a curriculum vitae, three best papers in PDF format, and contact details for coauthors and three references with their contact addresses and phone numbers.

Who should applicants contact for questions regarding the position?

Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Alan Aspuru-Guzik at aspuru@utoronto.ca.

What is the closing date for applications?

The closing date for applications is December 31, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET.

Will preference be given to certain applicants?

Yes, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority in the hiring process.

Mission & Purpose

Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is Canada’s top university with a long history of challenging the impossible and transforming society through the ingenuity and resolve of our faculty, students, alumni, and supporters. We are proud to be one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, bringing together top minds from every conceivable background and discipline to collaborate on the world’s most pressing challenges. As a catalyst for discovery, innovation, and progress, we prepare our students for success through an outstanding global education and commitment to inclusive excellence. The ideas, innovations, and actions of more than 660,000 graduates advance U of T’s impact on communities across the globe.