PhD Position – Control and Simulation of Solid State Quantum - Quantum Flagship : Job Details

PhD Position – Control and Simulation of Solid State Quantum

Conducting research for a changing society: This is what drives us at Forschungszentrum Jülich. As a member of the Helmholtz Association, we aim to tackle the grand societal challenges of our time and conduct research into the possibilities of a digitized society, a climate-friendly energy system, and a resource-efficient economy. Work together with around 7,400 employees in one of Europe's biggest research centers and help us to shape change!

The Peter Grünberg Institute for Quantum Control (PGI-8) at the Forschungszentrum Jülich specializes in novel optimization strategies for emerging quantum technologies. These emerging technologies aim to provide transformative changes to our society, including how we think about information, and unlocking vast calculations for the natural sciences, logistical problem solving, and high-performance computation. Our group has pioneered the application of quantum optimal control methods to quantum computation and many-body quantum systems. This includes the development of physical models and model reduction techniques as well as algorithmic advances of in-situ optimization and machine learning to tackle the complex processes inherent to scalable quantum devices.

PhD Position – Control and Simulation of Solid State Quantum Processors and SimulatorsYour Job:

• Developing numerical and analytical techniques to simulate and control the time dynamics of quantum technology devices
• Implementing and optimizing gate operations and artificial Hamiltonians on solid state devices
• Cooperating and actively working as a theorist with experimental partners improving quantum hardware
• Designing and implementing optimization techniques for full-stack implementation of quantum algorithms
• Modeling major sources of experimental error for control theory or co-design methods

Minimum Requirements:

• Master's degree in physics (or in a related subject)
• Background and strong interest in developing theoretical models and methods as well as in implementing numerical optimization techniques
• Interest in working closely with experimentalists
• Detailed knowledge of quantum physics and experience with quantum technology
• Strong mathematical education, in particular in relation to linear algebra
• Strong programming experience
• Ability to effectively communicate in written and spoken English
• Ability to work autonomously and in close interaction within a team
• Most importantly: enthusiasm to explore uncharted territory, to develop, and to follow your own ideas

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• Opportunity to conduct research at the interface of theory and experiment in a world-leading group in quantum control
• Work in a highly motivated research group as part of an international and interdisciplinary working environment with access to outstanding computing facilities and connections to the best research institutions around the world
• Continuous scientific mentoring by your scientific advisor as well as feedback and wide-ranging expertise from the whole group in multiple facets of quantum technology and optimization
• Opportunity of participating in (international) conferences and project meetings
• Participation in overarching seminars including certificate
• The skills that you will acquire during your PhD are in high demand both in academia and in high-tech companies: at present, there is significant government and private investment in the field of quantum technologies
• Opportunity to develop your strengths, e.g. through a comprehensive training program, a structured program including continuing professional development and networking opportunities specifically designed for Jülich's doctoral researchers by the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors (JuDocS):
• 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year)

The position is for a fixed term of three years. The salary is in line with pay group 13 (75%) of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund). In addition, an annual special payment is granted (“Christmas payment”), which amounts to 60% of the monthly salary. Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich (including its various branch offices) is available at All information about the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) can be found on the BMI website: The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 66 of the PDF download.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

Questions about the Offer?

Please feel free to contact us via our contact form. Please note that for technical reasons we cannot accept applications via e-mail.

You can find helpful information on the application and selection process here. You can also find answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs.

We look forward to receiving your application. The job will be advertised until the position has been successfully filled. You should therefore submit your application as soon as possible via our Online Recruitment System!

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