The Institute of Theoretical Physics at the University of Cologne is seeking an outstanding junior academic in the field of theoretical quantum science and technologies. Expected directions encompass quantum devices, quantum matter, and quantum information science. Applications must demonstrate experience in at least one of these areas, and show openness to research transcending the boundaries between fields. We invite applications from highly qualified junior scientists with a clear vision regarding their future research, and leadership potential.

The University of Cologne is one of the oldest and largest universities in Germany. With its six Faculties covering a broad spectrum of disciplines and its internationally outstanding research profile areas, it enjoys an excellent reputation for its academic achievements and high standards of undergraduate and graduate education. The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences comprises six departments with about 180 professors and 9,000 students and is one of the largest faculties in the country. The Cluster of Excellence“Matter and Light for Quantum Computing” (ML4Q) and the Institute of Theoretical Physics are seeking applications for a Tenure-Track Professorship (W1 tenured as W3) in quantum science and technologies.

TASKS - ML4Q is a cooperation of the universities of Cologne, Aachen, Bonn and the Research Center Jülich. The research cluster is funded by the German Excellence Strategy. The candidate is expected to contribute actively to ML4Q and to extend strategically the research spectrum of theoretical physics at the University of Cologne. The institute is engaged in various other collaborative research initiatives, including the CRC183 “Entangled States of Matter”, and prospective collaboration in these projects is encouraged. The successful candidate is expected to participate in the teaching of theoretical physics, in particular that of theoretical condensed matter physics and quantum information science.

OFFER - The University of Cologne provides a stimulating academic environment with a wide range of career development opportunities as well as support services for dual career couples and family-friendly working conditions. The position (of a Juniorprofessorin / Juniorprofessor) is available as of at the earliest possible date. Formal requirements are detailed in Section 36 of the Higher Education Act of North Rhine-Westphalia
(Hochschulgesetz – HG NRW).

In the third year after entering into office, an interim evaluation is held. This serves as the basis for the decision as to whether an extension for a further three years will be granted to the candidate. At the latest, a final evaluation is held in the sixth year after entering into office. On this basis, a decision will be reached as to whether the candidate will be given tenure at W3 level. Both evaluations are carried out according to the Regulations for Quality Assurance in Tenure Track Procedures at the University of Cologne, which also
offer the possibility of deviating from the planned time sequence in favour of an individualised procedure.
The University of Cologne is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. Women are especially encouraged to apply and will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly welcome applications from people with disabilities / special needs or of equal status.

Please submit your application via the University of Cologne’s Academic Job Portal (https://professorships.uni-koeln.de) by March 24, 2022. Your application should be addressed to the Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. Applications should include a CV, the list of publications, a concise summary of past achievements including a commented list of three selected publications, a research plan, and a teaching statement.