MIT Quantum Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

MIT Quantum Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowship Program is sponsored by MIT Quantum Initiative. Supports exceptional early-career scientists pursuing bold, interdisciplinary research in quantum science, including quantum computing, sensing, materials, simulation, and networks. Emphasizes connections across disciplines.

qmit postdoc program – MIT Quantum Initiative MIT Quantum Initiative (QMIT) Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, Funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation QMIT Postdoc Fellowship Program Welcoming applications for the 2027–2028 academic year The MIT Quantum Initiative (QMIT) , an MIT Presidential Initiative, is an Institute-wide priority to advance MIT’s leadership in quantum by applying quantum breakthroughs to the most valuable and consequential challenges in science, technology, industry, and national security.

IMAGE COURTESY Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation The premise of QMIT is that realizing the full promise of quantum requires co-developing quantum tools and algorithms together with the ultimate users of integrated quantum systems across any domain of application.

From quantum materials and sensing to computation and communication, QMIT will foster collaboration across both traditional and non-traditional disciplines, engaging a wide breadth of domain experts and end users in developing quantum solutions that are accessible, relevant, and profoundly transformative.

Fellowship program overview The MIT Quantum Initiative (QMIT) invites applications for the QMIT Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, supporting exceptional early-career scientists pursuing bold, interdisciplinary research in quantum science. These prestigious fellowships are designed to identify and empower the next generation of quantum leaders whose work expands the boundaries of quantum science and technology.

This postdoctoral program is funded by a grant to MIT from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to support postdoctoral researchers working in the range of natural science disciplines supported by the foundation. Applications that involve a deep perspective in quantum science, as well as those emphasizing interdisciplinary exploration and broadening the definition of quantum science, will be supported.

Proposals that connect quantum science to new or unexpected domains are particularly encouraged. For example, a proposal using neutral atoms to simulate a biological process, combining atomic physics, quantum algorithms, and biology, exemplifies the program’s interdisciplinary vision.

Application Opens 9/1/2026 Applications Due 10/23/2026 Expected Number of Postdocs to be Appointed in year 1 Up to 17 Fellowship Funding Length 1 year, with the possibility of reappointment on other research funding Fellowship start Between January & September 2027 Scholars selected for this program will be appointed as postdoctoral associates , with MIT employee benefits ; the salary is $80,000.

Note that the foundation sponsoring the fellowship requires that data developed under the awards be made publicly available, and that peer-reviewed journal articles resulting from the award follow the Moore Foundation’s open access policy (i.e., publicly and freely available within 12 months of publication).

Eligibility and application requirements Outstanding quantum researchers working in any of the following disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Physics : astronomy, astrophysics, atomic physics, biophysics, chemical physics, condensed matter physics (including quantum materials, soft matter, and polymers), fluid dynamics, molecular physics, optical physics, plasma physics, precision measurements, quantum information Green chemistry and materials science: green chemistry, materials science Curiosity-driven biological sciences and earth sciences: systems biology, evolutionary biology, cellular biology, molecular biology, and microbiology; and Earth and planetary sciences, ecology, and biodiversity Note: These funds cannot be used to support disease-oriented or clinical research.

Eligible applicants must have received their doctorate (PhD or equivalent) on or after January 1, 2025, and must be available for a start date between January 1 and September 1, 2027. Applications should include.

Cover Letter – outlining motivation and proposed MIT mentor(s) Curriculum Vitae – including publications Research Proposal – up to 3 pages describing the project and its interdisciplinary aspects Short Abstract – 250 words describing the proposal, suitable for public release Three Letters of Recommendation , including one from a proposed MIT mentor. All materials should be submitted by October 23, 2026 here .

Applications will be evaluated by a committee of QMIT leadership . The selection process emphasizes creativity, independence, and interdisciplinarity. Frequently asked questions Can I apply if I am currently an MIT postdoc?

Yes, if you meet the other eligibility criteria. How do I identify a postdoc mentor? Applicants are encouraged to identify MIT faculty whose research programs can support/complement the applicant’s proposed plan, and to initiate contact early in the application process to discuss research plans.

Does my proposal need to be interdisciplinary? No, all areas of quantum will be considered. What benefits will the QMIT postdoc receive?

Scholars selected for this program will be appointed as postdoctoral associates , with MIT employee benefits . A mentoring plan will be created for each scholar by the faculty host, addressing how their research training and career growth will be supported during the fellowship period. Scholars will have access to career development support, as well as cohort-specific activities and QMIT resources.

Can I apply if I applied last year? Yes, if you meet the other eligibility criteria. Please send all enquiries to Jacqueline Slavik .