Theoretical Physicist

Pronoia Energy

$120K — $150K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in physics with specialization in quantum thermodynamics, condensed-matter theory, quantum optics, or statistical mechanics.
  • Published research demonstrating theoretical expertise.
  • High level of intellectual honesty and humility in approach.
  • Ability to work independently in ambiguous situations and iterate quickly.
  • Experience translating theoretical concepts into actionable directions for teams.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and refine theoretical foundations for quantum-energy-storage systems.
  • Create testable predictions based on theoretical models.
  • Identify genuine scientific effects, preserving research integrity.
  • Collaborate closely with founding team members in research leadership.
  • Assist in establishing the company's scientific roadmap and priorities.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to address major engineering challenges in quantum energy storage.
  • Be the foundational scientist in a transformative company with ownership stakes.
  • Access to cutting-edge laboratories and collaborative resources.
  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage and unlimited paid time off.
  • Professional development funding and relocation support as needed.
Full Job Description
Role Summary:

To meet our ambitious goals we are hiring a Theoretical Physicist to provide additional layers of validation for our innovative inventions. This will be an early scientist in our most fundamental research function, working directly with the co-founders. In this role, you will develop the theoretical foundation of our quantum-energy approach and derive what our experiments should show, identifying which directions are promising versus dead ends, and give the company a principled map of its upcoming frontier. You will partner directly with the co-founder leading Research and Science and translate deep theory into experimental direction the rest of the team can act on. This role is onsite in Torrance, California.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and refine the theoretical foundations of our quantum-energy-storage approach.
  • Derive testable predictions and translate deep theory into concrete experimental direction.
  • Distinguish real, robust effects from fragile or artifactual ones, keeping the science honest.
  • Partner directly with the founders leading Research and Science.
  • Help set the company's scientific roadmap and priorities.


Required Qualifications:

  • A physics PhD with genuine theoretical depth in a relevant subfield, such as quantum thermodynamics, condensed-matter theory, quantum optics, or statistical mechanics.
  • Published works, intellectual honesty and deep humility.
  • A self-starter who thrives amid ambiguity and rapid iteration with the ability to turn theory into direction the rest of the team can act on.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Research experience directly relevant to quantum batteries, superlattices, or solid-state energy storage.
  • Standing relationships in the academic quantum-thermodynamics or condensed-matter communities.
  • Experience translating theory into experimental programs.
  • Prior work bridging academia and a company or national lab.


What We Offer:

  • Chance to solve one of the world's biggest engineering challenges and pioneer quantum energy storage.
  • The opportunity to be the founding scientist of a new field's company, with real ownership and direct partnership with a founder.
  • Competitive salary, equity in a transformative startup, and performance-based incentives.
  • Access to cutting-edge labs, tools, and resources in a flexible, collaborative work environment.
  • Comprehensive benefits: health insurance, unlimited PTO, professional development stipend, and relocation assistance if needed.


If you're excited to tackle this real-world quantum problem and build the energy systems of the future, apply with your resume and cover letter detailing relevant projects.

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Pronoia Energy

More Education, Government & Non-Profit Jobs

Find similar Theoretical Physicist jobs: