POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER in Quantum Computing Middleware and Applications Part-time

Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Computing Middleware and Applications

The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world's leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. The Department of Chemistry and the Department of Computer Science at the Faculty of Science carry out research on chemistry and its applications and computer science at an international level and provide academic teaching based on high quality research. The department has extensive international collaboration with companies and universities.

The Department of Computer Sciences invites applications for a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER in Quantum Computing Middleware and Applications. The quantum software group at the University of Helsinki consists of close to ten researchers looking at quantum computing from the computer science perspective with an empirical research methodology. The position is fixed-term for 2 years with a possible extension of 2.5 years.

Position description: The work is part of a new UnloQ project, which aims to bridge the gap between early-stage quantum technology and industrial use. This requires cooperation of all layers in the quantum stack. We are particularly interested in a mix of three aspects: circuit optimization, evolving error correction techniques, and applications. We use locally hosted quantum computers based on superconducting technology in our experiments as well as the resources of our national supercomputing center. The work involves developing ideas and techniques, implementing experiments in code and running them on 50 (and upcoming 300) qubit quantum computers, analyzing the results and documenting them in scientific papers. Collaboration with other team members and supervision of MSc and PhD students are part of the work. The position has a trial period of 6 months.

Requirements: The ideal candidate has a PhD in quantum computing or in computer science with a quantum perspective. Skills to implement quantum programs in QisKit, Qrisp, or other major quantum programming environments are essential. Teamworking and communication skills are important as our project involves working together with our industry partners. Creativity and agility are important in this fast-moving area. Good written and oral communication skills in English will be needed.

Salary and benefits: The salary will be in accordance with the University salary system (requirement level 5). In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal performance. The starting salary will be approximately 4000-4400 €/month. University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, sports facilities, and ample opportunities for professional development and language studies. A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to the University of Helsinki. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community.

How to apply: Applications should include: a CV with a list of publications, a brief description of your research interests (1 page) with clear indication on the motivation to apply for this position, a copy of a PhD degree certificate. If you are interviewed, you will be asked for contact details for two references. The deadline for applications is 21.10. Interviews will commence right away, already during the application period. The ideal start date is as soon as possible, at the latest January 1st 2027. Please send us an application that you have crafted yourself, reflecting your own capability and thoughts. Applications generated by AI do not meet our expectations.