Research Scientist

Title:

BELONG. CONNECT. GROW. with KBR.

Around here, we define the future. We are a company of innovators, thinkers, creators, explorers, volunteers, and dreamers. But we all share one goal: to improve the world responsibly and safely.

Job Description:
 

The Intelligent Systems Research and Development Support (ISRDS) contract supports NASA Ames Research Center in developing and infusing advanced technology into NASA missions. Our scientists, engineers and technologists support research and development of critical enabling technologies for all of the NASA Mission Directorates. This KBR-led team has supported technology development for NASA space exploration missions such as LADEE, VIPER, Biosentinel, Starling and TESS, supports payload development for the International Space Station, and develops robotics and autonomous operations technologies for lunar and planetary exploration, and performs research in materials modeling (including quantum materials) and quantum computing.

KBR is looking for a Research Scientist to support the Quantum Artificial Intelligence Lab (QuAIL) at NASA Ames.  This person must have a strong expertise in development and analysis of quantum and quantum-inspired algorithms, quantum simulation, quantum error-correction and quantum error mitigation and a deep understanding of the physics behind quantum algorithms. We are looking for a candidate with at least 3 years of experience in exploring quantum computing including hardware and software experience.

This person will lead independent research through numerical and theoretical analysis, exploring quantum error-correction, quantum algorithms, and quantum “inspired” classical algorithms for near-term applications on quantum devices, including but not limited to quantum machine learning, quantum simulation and optimization. This person must be skilled in both numerical and analytical evaluation of the performance of quantum and classical algorithms, comparing different quantum and quantum-classical hybrid approaches with each other and with state-of-the-art classical alternatives.

This individual must have demonstrated experience leading a team of researchers in quantum computing, and in leading technical proposal efforts.

Responsibilities:

• Will support development and analysis of quantum and quantum inspired algorithms
• Will support resource estimation and benchmarking of architectures and algorithms
• Will support research and software engineering on quantum error-correction and quantum algorithms
• Will lead research on fundamental quantum mechanisms and their use in quantum computation
• May support and lead other related tasks in quantum sciences, data sciences and AI-based technologies

REQUIRED Skills and Traits:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in quantum computing
• Experience in developing, benchmarking
• Demonstrated ability to lead small teams
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to develop and execute technical proposals

Basic Compensation:

$142,100.00 – $213,200.00

The offered rate will be based on contract affordability and the selected candidate's working location, knowledge, skills, and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

KBR Benefits​

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule.  We support career advancement through professional training and development.​

Click here to learn more:  KBR Benefits

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Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture.  These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company.  That commitment is central to our team of team’s philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver – Together. 

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.