Postdoctoral Associate

Job Description

The successful candidate will be working broadly in quantum information theory, which includes (but is not limited to): quantum computing (algorithms, error correction), quantum learning, theory/tomography, and quantum Shannon theory.

Potential research topics include:

• The impacts and limitations of (non-Markovian) noise on near-term quantum computing, including noise-resilient circuits, error suppression (e.g., dynamical decoupling), and error mitigation.

• Policies for entanglement distribution in quantum communication and distributed quantum computing networks with quantum repeaters.

• The role of adaptivity and non-Markovianity in finite-sample quantum hypothesis testing and quantum metrology.

The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to interact and collaborate with the growing and vibrant quantum information science community at Virginia Tech, including members of the Computer Science department, the VTQ Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering, and the new quantum center at the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia.

Required Qualifications

- A PhD in physics, computer science, mathematics, or related field, with a specialization in quantum information theory.
- PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
- Understanding of the foundational mathematical and statistical framework of quantum information theory and quantum computing, including quantum states (density operators), quantum channels, measurements (POVMs), and quantum circuits.

Preferred Qualifications

- Knowledge of semi-definite programming and experience with the Python programming language (numpy, scipy, matplotlib, etc.); understanding of the quantum comb/strategy/process tensor framework of non-Markovian quantum dynamics; familiarity with quantum error correction and (quantum) complexity theory.

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

61,008-68,000

Review Date

11/01/2024 

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Upon applying, applicants will provide:

- Two letters (minimum) of recommendation sent to skhatri@vt.edu

- Curriculum Vitae (CV)

- Statement of research interests and proposal for future research (3 pages)

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

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