What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pre-Doctoral Researcher, Center for Computational Quantum Physics position at Simons Foundation?
The Center for Computational Quantum Physics (CCQ) at the Flatiron Institute seeks temporary full-time Pre-Doctoral Researchers as part of its Pre-Doctoral Program. This program provides graduate students pursuing their PhD in a relevant field the opportunity to be employed at the CCQ for 4 months for the purpose of working on a research project with one or more CCQ staff mentors. This position will be based onsite at the foundation in New York City.
Applicants for this position should indicate in their application one or more potential mentors at CCQ and must have the approval of their thesis advisor. Applications must be submitted by March 30, 2026 for full consideration for the fall 2026 session.
Information about potential mentors and research projects may be obtained from CCQ’s website.
QualificationsEducation
- Currently engaged in dissertation research in a PhD program in a field such as condensed matter physics, materials science, or chemistry relevant to the proposed research
Experience
- At least 1-2 years of advanced course work in areas relevant to the proposed research along with 1 or more years of relevant research experience.
- Demonstrated understanding of basic research skills
- Experience programming in at least one of the following languages: C/C , Python/Julia, and/or Fortran
Related Skills & Other Requirements
- Technical and scientific curiosity
- Professional and effective communication skills
- Excellent collaboration skills
- Additionally, knowledge of software engineering practices for working in groups, including software development life cycles, coding standards, code review and version control systems (e.g., Git) and of linux is desirable.
REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS
- CV and publication list
- Description of previous research experience (not to exceed two pages)
- Research proposal of not more than 2 pages outlining planned work at Flatiron including name(s) of potential mentor(s)
- Two (2) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by the letter writers through Interfolio. One letter must be from the applicant’s PhD supervisor and must explicitly approve the applicant’s possible participation in the Pre-Doctoral Program as well as confirm that, should they be selected, there will be tuition support during their time in the Pre-Doctoral program.
SESSION DATES:
- Fall 2026: September 8- December 18, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
- The application deadline for this program is March 30, 2026.
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