Quantum Biology Laboratory, Howard University (Washington, DC)

Position Opening: Postdoctoral Scholar in Quantum Theory and Unconventional Computing

The Quantum Biology Laboratory (QBL) at Howard University in Washington, DC, is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Scholar to study how photoactivation of quantum optical networks coordinates structure, dynamics, and information processing in the slime mold Physarum polycephalum. This full-time annual appointment funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Matter-to-Life Program would be at a salary commensurate with experience, and is potentially renewable for up to three years. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Quantum Optics/Computing/Algorithms, Biological Physics, Neurophysics, Theoretical Physics, Network/Multiscale Dynamics, Computational Complexity, or similar discipline. 
• Expertise in quantum optics, quantum biology, open quantum systems, quantum computing, or photophysics required.
• Simulation experience in Chimera, PyMOL, GROMACS, or similar biomolecular modeling software and programming experience in Python, Fortran, and C desired. 
• Experience in high-performance computing and/or coding-intensive projects a plus.
• Experience working in or closely with experimental groups a plus.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work as part of a project team under the direction of the principal investigator (PI), with other QBL members and trainees, with QBL collaborators, and independently on research-related tasks.
• Participate actively and communicate effectively in a leadership role during lab/group meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences. Coordinate on-site and virtual meetings/lectures as needed.
• Be responsive to communications from the PI and able to take direction.
• Manage time and project(s) well with personal initiative. Mentor QBL trainees and perform job-related administrative tasks as assigned. Travel as needed to collaborate on project objectives.
• Write well scientifically, including in the preparation of regular reports, manuscripts for publication, and grant proposals. 

BENEFITS

• 403(b) with employer matching contributions
• Health insurance

The notional start date for this position is July 10th, 2023. Position renewal after the first year will be based on satisfactory performance. Interested candidates should submit a 1) CV/resume, 2) cover letter describing their interest in and qualifications for this position, and 3) three references (including one from their Ph.D. supervisor, one from their current immediate supervisor if different, and one from a senior scientific collaborator) to quantumbiolab@howard.edu by Friday, June 23rd, 2023.