Associate Research Scientist, Center for Computational Quantum Physics and Initiative for Computational Catalysis

The Center for Computational Quantum Physics (CCQ) and the Initiative for Computational Catalysis (ICC) invite applications for a joint Associate Research Scientist position. Consideration will be given to applicants in areas of research relevant to both centers, such as first-principles electronic structure methods for strongly correlated molecules and materials, quantum embedding for energies and forces, electronic and nonadiabatic dynamics, machine learning, and data-driven approaches to electronic structure and dynamics.

Directed by Antoine Georges and co-directed by Andrew Millis, the Center for Computational Quantum Physics (CCQ) is a leading international center for the study of equilibrium and non-equilibrium many-body quantum systems, with applications to condensed matter physics, materials science, chemistry and related fields.  Directed by Angel Rubio and co-directed by Timothy Berkelbach, the Initiative for Computational Catalysis (ICC) develops and applies new computational techniques to fundamental open problems in catalysis including homogeneous, heterogeneous, and enzyme catalysis.

CCQ and ICC currently comprise about 45 and 15 scientists, respectively, as well as support staff, visiting scientists, and affiliated graduate students and interns. Both centers have vigorous visitor and workshop programs, collaborate closely and maintain strong interactions with scientists from neighboring institutions.

Associate Research Scientists at CCQ and ICC are researchers who develop theoretical concepts, algorithms, and codes, and apply these to obtain new insights into the electronic structure and dynamics of molecules and materials. Associate Research Scientists develop their own research programs and also work in collaboration with other scientists, including postdoctoral fellows. Reporting to the directors of CCQ and ICC, these positions are based at the Simons Foundation in New York City.

Associate Research Scientists are typically appointed for an initial three-year period; the appointment may be renewed for up to another three years. Associate Research Scientists may be reviewed for promotion to a non-term-limited position as a Research Scientist.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities 

• Conduct research and/or develop and implement novel algorithms and codes relevant to CCQ and ICC research directions


• Publish research in refereed scientific and technical journals and present research at scientific conferences


• Provide publicly available software for use by the scientific community


• Support the public use of available software


• Assist in the organization of workshops, conferences, and group seminars


• Supervise research conducted by Flatiron research fellows and graduate and undergraduate students from neighboring institutions


• Mentor summer students and assist in the organization of summer programs


• Perform other duties or tasks as assigned or required

Education

• Ph.D. in a related field

Related Skills & Other Requirements

• Postgraduate research experience (typically 2 to 6 years for ARS positions) in quantum many-body theory, condensed matter physics, theoretical chemistry, materials science, or another field of interest to CCQ and ICC.


• A record of excellence in scientific publication


• Ability to do original and outstanding computational research


• Effective oral and written communication skills


• Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative team environment

Required Application Materials

• CV


• Research statement outlining both past research accomplishments and a vision for scientific research at the ICC and CCQ.


• Three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by the letter writers

Deadline

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is  filled. For full consideration, application by December 5th, 2025 is recommended.

Compensation and Benefits

• The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $130,000- $165,000.


• In addition to competitive salaries, the Simons Foundation provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

Our Commitment to Expanding Pathways to Science & Opportunities for All:

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. The Simons Foundation is committed to advancing basic science and mathematics to benefit humankind and expand our collective understanding of our world. As part of our mission, we support partners, programs, and initiatives that seek to broaden the scientific community and open pathways to science and mathematics careers.

The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state, and local law