Research Scientist, Condensed Matter Theory
This role bridges theoretical condensed matter physics with AI-driven materials discovery, requiring expertise in first-principles modeling and experimental validation to accelerate breakthroughs in energy and materials. The candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop scalable, physics-informed computational frameworks at the intersection of theory, automation, and high-performance computing.
Skills required
About this role
About Periodic Labs
We’re an AI and physical sciences company building state-of-the-art models to accelerate breakthroughs across materials, energy, and beyond. Backed by world-class investors and growing rapidly, we operate at the pace the frontier requires. Our team brings deep expertise, genuine ownership, and an insatiable drive to push the boundaries of what’s scientifically possible.
About the Role
Join a world-class team of scientists and engineers pushing the boundaries of physics research in a groundbreaking lab where AI, theory, and automation unlock discoveries at unprecedented speed and scale.
As a Research Scientist in Condensed Matter Theory, you will use theoretical modeling to connect first-principles calculations and experiments. You will collaborate closely with computational and experimental scientists and ML researchers to develop physical understanding that guides and accelerates the discovery of novel quantum materials.
What You’ll Do
Develop and apply theoretical models to interpret experimental observations and guide materials discovery efforts
Bridge first-principles calculations (e.g., DFT) and experimental results to build predictive physical understanding
Collaborate with ML researchers to incorporate theoretical insights into machine learning models and inform training data strategies
Work with computational and experimental scientists to design experiments and validate theoretical predictions
Communicate theoretical findings clearly across disciplines and contribute to a shared scientific roadmap
You Will Thrive in This Role If You Have
PhD in condensed matter theory, with a focus on quantum materials
Deep expertise in relating theoretical models to real materials and experimental observables
Strong publication record demonstrating impactful, independent research
Ability to collaborate effectively across theory, computation, and experiment
Especially Strong Candidates May Also Have
Experience running first-principles calculations such as density functional theory (DFT) on realistic systems
Experience with deep learning methods, including graph neural networks, applied to materials or physics problems
Experience modeling superconductivity and/or magnetism in quantum materials
Familiarity with high-throughput computational workflows or materials databases
Mechanics
Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree or similar experience
Location: Menlo Park, CA or Montreal, Canada. (Soon: San Francisco, too)
Compensation: $225,000–$325,000 + equity
Visa sponsorship: Yes, we sponsor visas.
We’re building a team of the world’s best — the scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers who don’t just follow the frontier, they define it. If you’re driven to bring AI to life in the physical world and make discoveries that have never been made before, you belong here.
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