University of Maryland, Dept. of Mathematics
Position ID:
UMD-MATHQUANTUM1 [#25094]
Position Title:
Postdoc
Position Type:
Postdoctoral
Position Location:
College Park, Maryland 20742, United States of America
Subject Areas:
Mathematics, Quantum Information Science
Appl Deadline:
2024/11/01 11:59PM
(posted 2024/09/05, listed until 2025/03/05)

Position Description:
Position Description
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) MathQuantum RTG (Research Training Group) seeks to hire a postdoctoral fellow working at the intersection of mathematics and quantum information science (QIS). This appointment, offered jointly by IPST (the Institute for Physical Science & Technology) and the Department of Mathematics, has both research and teaching components. Research: The candidate is expected to work in the FloQuET research group led by Assistant Professor Avik Dutt, primarily on the quantum dynamics and noise of nonlinear systems, and on hybrid quantum-classical algorithms for state-of-the-art quantum computers. Specifically, research would focus on one or more of these: 1. creating mathematical frameworks to represent the dynamics of open quantum systems (including optics and photonics, trapped-ion systems, and atomic systems) 2. developing approaches to efficiently solve such frameworks for accurate prediction of the behavior of state-of-the-art quantum-mechanical devices 3. developing and implementing hybrid quantum-classical algorithms through rigorous mathematical techniques and advanced linear algebra, specifically for exploring trapped-ion systems 4. using advanced linear algebra techniques and optimizers for hybrid quantum/classical calculations on today’s noisy quantum computers Apart from fundamental interest, the research finds practical application in quantum- enhanced ultraprecise sensing and metrology, in analog quantum simulations, and in universal quantum computing to solve problems that are intractable on current classical systems. A mix of individual ownership in research projects and collaborative work with members of the research group at all levels will be encouraged. In the longer term, the candidate is expected to identify open research questions at the intersection of the above mentioned focus areas within mathematics and QIS, and come up with creative approaches to address these questions. In alignment with the goal of the MathQuantum RTG to support researchers interested in entering the intersection of mathematics and QIS, candidates need not have expertise in both disciplines. Instead, a suitable candidate will have strength in one of the items below, with a desire to learn and work in the other one: (a) mathematics background: nonlinear differential equations, stochastic processes, advanced linear algebra (e.g. matrix decompositions) and/or topology (b) Q(I)S background: quantum systems, nonlinear dynamical systems, condensed matter physics, programming on QPUs (quantum-processing-units), or dissipative/non-Hermitian physics Teaching: In addition to research activities, there is a teaching load of 1 class each Fall and 1 class each Spring of tenure in the Department of Mathematics. Fellowship specifics: MathQuantum Postdoctoral Fellows are part of a UMD National Science Foundation RTG, which makes these postdoctoral positions unique. First, these do not focus only on research, but have important education, outreach, and community components. Experience or interest in scientific leadership and/or outreach are desired from a candidate. Second, these fellowships come with significant support, including comprehensive professional development support and mentoring. Eligibility: - Fellows must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, as required by the funding agency supporting this program - Ph.D. degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics, or statistics obtained by the time in which the fellowship starts - Demonstrated skills in both research and teaching, evidenced through the application components Benefits: - Mentored research and interdisciplinary training in applying mathematical methods to QIS problems - Access to coursework and seminars in theoretical and applied mathematics for QIS - Internship opportunities at quantum companies and government labs - Professional development and networking opportunities (including on Broader Impacts and proposal writing) - One-on-one career mentoring and guidance - Community-building and outreach activities - Opportunities to mentor graduate and undergraduate fellows - Funds for professional travel - Competitive salary and health benefits Expectations: - Engage in a mentored research project applying mathematics to QIS - Attend professional development workshops - Participate in Broader Impacts of QIS Winter Workshop - Participate in Summer Proposal Writing School - Submit a research proposal to a funding agency (as a result of participation in the Proposal Writing School) - Teach 1 class in Spring and 1 class in Fall in the Department of Mathematics - Engage in mentoring junior fellows - Attend MathQuantum RTG community and outreach events (Annual Symposium, RTG meetings, etc.) - Optional but encouraged: Complete or teach the Theory of QIS course - Optional but encouraged: Complete or teach the Applications of QIS course - Optional but encouraged: Participate in or lead the Quantum Information Science RIT Timeline and Application Materials: The appointment is expected to begin in August 2025, but candidates interested in starting as early as June 2025 should indicate this in their application or communications. The initial appointment is for a period of one year, with a possible extension to up to three years. For best consideration, the following application materials should be received by November 1, 2024: 1. CV 2. A 2-page maximum statement on research interests and goals (including relevant connections with mathematics and QIS) 3. A 1-page maximum statement on teaching experience, interest, and philosophy 4. A 1-page maximum statement on how the candidate is a good fit for the MathQuantum program and how the program will contribute to their professional goals (cover letter) 5. 3 letters of recommendation 6. Graduate and undergraduate transcripts (unofficial okay) Diversity Statement: The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, political affiliation, personal appearance, or on the basis of rights secured by the First Amendment, in all aspects of employment, educational programs, and activities, and admissions.Application Materials Required:
- Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
- Teaching statement
- Publication list
- Undergraduate Transcript
- Graduate Transcript
- Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site
)
- And anything else requested in the position description.
Further Info:
301-405-5460
Institute for Physical Science and Technology
4254 Stadium Drive, Room 4211
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742-4015
USA
4254 Stadium Drive, Room 4211
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742-4015
USA