What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Research Scientist, Center for Computational Quantum Physics position at Simons Foundation?
Applications are invited for an Associate Research Scientist position at CCQ. Applicants should have a strong background and research agenda in one or several fields of relevance to CCQ, including: computational theories of quantum materials, computational approaches to the quantum many-body problem, machine-learning/artificial intelligence approaches to quantum systems.
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, quantum materials, quantum emulators and related fields. The development of the concepts, algorithms and code libraries needed to advance the field is fundamental to the work of the center. Research projects currently pursued at CCQ cover a broad range of methods and interest, see: https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-quantum-physics/
CCQ currently comprises more than 40 scientists at career stages from recent Ph.D.s through senior scientists, as well as support staff, visiting scientists, and affiliated graduate students and interns. The institute has vigorous visitor and workshop programs and strong interactions with scientists from neighboring institutions.
CCQ has established formal partnerships with the New York City-Max Planck Center for Non-Equilibrium Quantum Phenomena, the CIFAR Quantum Materials program, the QUAST collaboration, the CEA-France, and the Collège de France and collaborates extensively with scientists at a range of institutions in the US and internationally. Candidates interested in collaborative work or joint positions are encouraged to discuss possibilities with CCQ staff.
Associate Research Scientists at CCQ are researchers who develop theoretical concepts, algorithms and codes, and apply these to obtain new insights into the quantum-mechanical behavior of models, materials and molecules. They develop their own research programs and also work in collaboration with other CCQ scientists including postdoctoral fellows. Reporting to research scientists, and/or the director or co-director of CCQ as appropriate, these positions are based at the Flatiron Institute, 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. For more information about careers at the Flatiron Institute, please visit simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/careers.
Review of applications will begin on or about December 15, 2025
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct research on computational quantum many-body systems; develop and implement novel methods, algorithms and codes relevant to this research agenda.
- Publish research in refereed scientific and technical journals and present research at scientific conferences
- Create, develop and maintain software for use by the scientific community
- Assist in the organization of CCQ-related workshops, conferences, group meetings and seminars
- Supervise research conducted by postdoctoral Flatiron research fellows and visiting graduate and undergraduate students
- Mentor summer students and assist in the organization of summer programs
- Perform other duties or tasks as assigned or required
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $130,000 to $165,000.
- In addition to competitive salaries, the Simons Foundation provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.
Education
- Ph.D. in a related field
Related Skills & Other Requirements
- Postgraduate research experience (typically 2 to 6 years) in computational quantum many-body theory, computational condensed matter physics or another field of interest to the CCQ.
- Familiarity with computational methods for electronic structure and quantum many-body problems. Experience and interest in developing or improving methods is desirable.
- A record of excellence in scientific publication
- Ability to do original and outstanding research in physics
- 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 CCQ.
- Three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by the letter writers through Interfolio
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
Salary : $130,000 - $165,000