Postdoctoral Associate/Research Scientist: The Virginia Tech Physics Department invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate/Research Scientist to collaborate on the Quantum Sensing of Neutrinos (QuSen) project, sponsored by DARPA. This role involves advanced research in computational physics, focusing on understanding excess energy from defect formation in neutrino detectors.
Designation
Postdoctoral Associate/Research Scientist
Research Area
Computational Physics, Neutrino Detection, Quantum Sensing
Location
Blacksburg, Virginia
Eligibility/Qualification
- Required:
- Ph.D. in physics, material science, or a related field
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Advanced knowledge of physics principles
- Experience with computational condensed matter physics and first-principles simulation codes (e.g., VASP, Quantum Espresso, Wien2k)
- Familiarity with phonon and exciton calculations
- Preferred:
- Experience in simulating solid-state defects, including formation processes using nudged elastic band, molecular dynamics, or related methods
- Prior postdoctoral research experience for Research Scientist candidates
Job Description
- Conduct research related to neutrino detectors and computational frameworks.
- Supervise and coordinate the work of graduate and undergraduate researchers.
- Develop future research efforts and assist principal investigators with grant proposals.
- Collaborate with the broader quantum community at Virginia Tech, including various centers focused on quantum physics and technology.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their application via the Virginia Tech careers portal. Include a curriculum vitae, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references.
Last Date to Apply
Open until filled, with a review date of October 25, 2025.







