What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Scientist 1 position at Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Posting Description
RESEARCH SCIENTIST 1, Research Laboratory of Electronics , participates and may contribute the design, development, and execution of research projects on machine-learning-assisted design and AI-driven optimization of quantum systems, in collaboration with the broader research team. In collaboration with PI, conducts theoretical and computational analysis of quantum photonic/hardware systems; interprets and implements research methodology based on analysis outcomes; authors and co-authors research results for peer-reviewed journals and conferences; prepares and presents findings at lab meetings, seminars, and research conferences; prepares periodic progress reports on research project phases for sponsors. May provide technical guidance to graduate students, UROP students, and postdoctoral researchers on projects related to AI-assisted quantum system design.
Job Requirements
REQUIRED : Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field; a minimum of two years of postdoctoral research experience; strong background in theoretical and computational physics, with demonstrated ability to transition methods (e.g., machine learning, numerical optimization) across research domains. PREFERRED : Experience with quantum computing, quantum information science, or quantum photonics; experience applying machine-learning or AI-driven optimization methods to physical/engineering systems; or strong record of peer-reviewed publications.
No regular travel required; occasional travel for conferences
8/3/2026
RESEARCH SCIENTIST 1, Research Laboratory of Electronics , participates and may contribute the design, development, and execution of research projects on machine-learning-assisted design and AI-driven optimization of quantum systems, in collaboration with the broader research team. In collaboration with PI, conducts theoretical and computational analysis of quantum photonic/hardware systems; interprets and implements research methodology based on analysis outcomes; authors and co-authors research results for peer-reviewed journals and conferences; prepares and presents findings at lab meetings, seminars, and research conferences; prepares periodic progress reports on research project phases for sponsors. May provide technical guidance to graduate students, UROP students, and postdoctoral researchers on projects related to AI-assisted quantum system design.
Job Requirements
REQUIRED : Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field; a minimum of two years of postdoctoral research experience; strong background in theoretical and computational physics, with demonstrated ability to transition methods (e.g., machine learning, numerical optimization) across research domains. PREFERRED : Experience with quantum computing, quantum information science, or quantum photonics; experience applying machine-learning or AI-driven optimization methods to physical/engineering systems; or strong record of peer-reviewed publications.
No regular travel required; occasional travel for conferences
8/3/2026