Overview

We are looking for applicants for the phd project

“Qubit-aware quantum algorithm development”.

The overall goal of the project is to identify areas of applications for quantum algorithms, for which the quantum resources needed are minimal while still witnessing quantum speed-up compared to state-of-the-art classical methods. Importantly, the candidate will not just try out another implementation of a quantum algorithm for which there is no analytical evidence that it will scale with a significant quantum advantage. Rather, the idea is to be aware of state-of-the-art classical methods and derive results that inform for what problems of practical interest one might eventually want to run quantum algorithms. Collaboration with (future) industrial users of quantum algorithms will be encouraged.

The project is a cooperation between the Chair of Quantum Information Systems in computer science and the Institute for Quantum Information group and will be jointly supervised by Mario Berta and Dominique Unruh.

How to apply?

Please send the following documents to both Mario Berta and Dominique Unruh:

  • A letter of motivation including how exactly you see your connection to the project
  • Curriculum vitae (please explain your scientific background)
  • List of publications, if any
  • A summary explaining your master thesis/thesis project (and possible connections to the position)
  • At least two letters of reference (please ask for the letters to be sent directly to us)
  • Masters degree (if you do not have it yet, provide whatever confirmation you can get)
  • Transcript of records

All documents (except the recommendation letters) should be formatted as a single pdf-file. You should send your application ultimately by

June 20, 2024 (AoE)

by e-mail to both:

berta@physik.rwth-aachen.de and qubit.aware.e35frx@rwth.unruh.de

Enquiries can also be directed to these e-mail addresses.

Required profile

Candidates must have (or soon obtain) a master degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics or related area and have completed their studies with excellent grades. You should have interest in performing original, highly competitive scientific research, publishing your results in top conferences and scientific journals. Self-motivation and the ability to work both independently and as a team player in local and international research groups are expected. Fluency in English is required; proficiency in German is helpful but not compulsory.

What do we offer? We offer a stimulating international research environment, the possibility to participate in highly competitive and interdisciplinary research and the opportunity to involve students in your research through project work. Doctoral researchers have a status as employee with a salary according to the German federal employee scale TV-L E13; the exact salary is subject to your family situation. (Some unofficial information here.) The duration of the position is four years.

RWTH Aachen University offers excellent facilities for professional and personal development.

Starting date of the position: as soon as possible.


RWTH Aachen University is certified as a “Family-Friendly University”. We particularly welcome and encourage applications from women, disabled persons and ethnic minority groups, recognizing they are underrepresented across RWTH Aachen University. The principles of fair and open competition apply and appointments will be made on merit.