Quantum Algorithms Research Intern, Power Flow Optimization - job 2 of 2

Job Description

Job Title: Quantum Algorithms Research Engineer, Power Flow Optimization

Department: R&D Innovation Lab

Application Closing: TBD

Supervisor: Heloise Pajot, Digital Innovation Lead

Location: Los Altos, CA or remote (USA)

Schedule: Part-time / Full-Time

Duration: Flexible, ideally starting in September for at least 6 months

Compensation: Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience

About the company

EDF (Électricité de France) is a global, integrated energy company and the world’s largest electricity producer. With 140 GW of generation capacity across more than 30 countries, EDF generates over 650 TWh of electricity for 38 million customers, and 85% of that electricity has low or no carbon emissions. With 160,000 employees worldwide, EDF is active in the entire value chain of the electric industry, including R&D, project development, generation, trading, transmission, distribution, sales, and energy services.

In the US, EDF Innovation Lab’s role is to provide R&D, innovation, and business development support to the EDF Group. This is done through the creation of partnerships and collaborations with leading research institutions and industries and the identification and development of innovative technologies and solutions. EDF Innovation Lab also introduces start-ups and emerging technologies to EDF Group’s business units with the goal of partnering and developing joint ventures.

About the role

We are currently seeking a talented and highly motivated Quantum Algorithms Research Engineer Intern to join our Digital Innovation team. In this role, you will explore the potential of quantum computing for power flow optimization calculations.

As the energy industry faces significant challenges on industrial, economic, and scientific fronts, we recognize the need for continuous advancements in computational codes, tools for forecasting, scheduling optimization, network optimization, power plant management and simulation (code_aster, code_saturne). With the increasing share of renewable energies and the electrification of various sectors, including electric mobility, our focus on power flow optimization has never been more crucial.

In this context, quantum algorithms hold tremendous promise. Since 2017, our dedicated team at EDF R&D has been at the forefront of quantum research, exploring various applications. Now, we are seeking a talented individual to contribute to our mission from Los Altos, CA, and leverage the opportunities offered by the US ecosystem.

In this role, you will be in charge of implementing the algorithms developed by EDF teams on quantum machines, developing adaptations of existing algorithms, and maintaining the state-of-the-art algorithm library through research and development. You will have the autonomy to drive your research, publish and present high-impact results. You will collaborate closely with our Quantum research team and benefit from the expertise of EDF R&D, the world’s largest utilities R&D with over 1,800 researchers and 8 labs around the world.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD level in physics and have in-depth knowledge of quantum information theory. The candidate will also be familiar with algorithms used in one or more of the following fields: combinatorial optimization, PDE, CFD, materials simulation.

If you have a strong technical background, a passion for innovation in Quantum Computing, and an interest in the Energy Industry, apply now and join us in shaping the future of energy through groundbreaking research and innovation!

Education and Experience:

• Currently pursuing a PhD’s degree in Physics or a relevant field, with sufficient experience or knowledge of quantum information theory
• Experience in the energy industry and knowledge of power grids, and Distributed Energy Resources Integration is a plus.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong background in quantum physics, mathematics and algorithms, with a solid understanding of optimization techniques.
• Proficient coding skills in Python or relevant languages.
• Proficiency in quantum algorithms.
• Ability to work independently and deliver analyses/work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to thrive in a multicultural environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Specific duties and responsibilities include, among others:

• Conduct a literature review on appropriate quantum algorithms.
• Develop proof-of-concept solutions for energy use cases.
• Collaborate with partners in France and the US to develop quantum algorithms.
• Code in Python, C++, or relevant languages.
• Understand and apply relevant quantum code libraries to utilize cloud resources.

All of these tasks will be related to the work already carried out by the EDF Innovation Lab in previous years. The person may perform other duties assigned.

How to Apply

• Send a Resume/CV and Cover Letter to pajot@edf-inc.com with ‘Intern, Quantum Activities’ in the subject line.

EDF Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.