Quantum Resource Estimation Repository and Generation
Science/CS Domains
Quantum Computing, Quantum Resource Estimation
Overview
NERSC, the mission high performance computing (HPC) center for the Department of Energy Office of Science, is seeking a motivated and talented student for a summer internship position within its Advanced Technologies Group (ATG). The ATG focuses on exploring emerging computing technologies, including quantum computing, to accelerate scientific discovery.
This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the rapidly evolving field of quantum computing, specifically focusing on the critical area of quantum resource estimation (QRE). QRE analyzes the key resources, such as qubit counts, gate depths, and execution time, required for solving scientifically relevant problems on future quantum computers.
Project description
The intern will work directly on a project aimed at systematically understanding the resources required for various scientific domains. The work will involve two primary components:
- Quantum Resource Estimate (QRE) Repository Curation: The intern will be responsible for collecting, organizing, and curating a comprehensive repository of existing quantum resource estimates published in the literature or presented in reports for scientifically challenging problems (e.g., materials science simulations, nuclear physics, computational chemistry). This involves developing a systematic framework to compare and categorize estimates based on problem size, required accuracy, assumed quantum hardware models, and compilation methods.
- Novel QRE Generation (Optional/Stretch Goal): Depending on the intern’s background and project progress, they may also contribute to generating new quantum resource estimates for specific, high-impact scientific problems relevant to the NERSC user community. This may involve using open-source QRE tools or developing custom scripts to analyze quantum circuits and estimate their resource requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Key responsibilities of this position include the following:
- Systematically search for and collect published quantum resource estimates related to challenge problems in science and engineering.
- Develop and maintain a structured database or repository to organize the collected QRE data.
- Analyze and categorize QREs based on underlying assumptions, algorithms, and target quantum architectures.
- (If applicable) Utilize or develop tools to perform new quantum resource estimations for selected problems.
- Document all work, methodology, and results, culminating in a final presentation or report.
- Collaborate effectively with researchers and staff in the ATG team.
Qualifications
Required
The successful candidate will possess the following qualifications:
- Currently pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. degree in computer science, physics, electrical engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
- Demonstrated understanding of the fundamentals of quantum computing, quantum algorithms (e.g., Shor’s, Grover’s, quantum phase estimation), and the quantum circuit model of computation.
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python).
- Familiarity with common quantum computing frameworks (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq, Pennylane).
- Strong analytical, organizational, and technical writing skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced research environment.
Desired
Desirable qualifications that may enhance the candidate’s chances of success include the following:
- Experience with high performance computing (HPC) environments.
- Familiarity with quantum compilation techniques or resource estimation tools (e.g., Microsoft Azure Quantum Resource Estimator).
- Prior research experience related to quantum resource analysis or benchmarking.
Contact
Project mentor
Daan Camps
Quantum and High Performance Computing Engineer
National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC)
HPC Technology Dept.
Advanced Technologies Group