Job description:
The Mathematical Principles of Information and Communication Group (https://www.unav.edu/web/departamento-de-ingenieria-biomedica-yciencias/... ) at the Tecnun-School of Engineering (University of Navarra, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain) has a PhD position available within the fields of quantum computing and quantum error correction. The PhD position is located at the Ibaeta Campus, affiliated to the Department of Bioengineering and Basic Sciences, for a period of 3 years with the possibility of extensions based on specific circumstances. The position is scheduled to start in 2024 and will be conducted under the supervision of researchers Dr. Josu Etxezarreta from Tecnun and Dr. Rubén M. Otxoa from Hitachi-Cambridge Laboratory.

Employer Information:

The PhD position will cover theoretical advancements, algorithm design, as well as simulation and experimental evaluation on the topic of quantum error correction and Fault Tolerance quantum computing, in particular exploring practical implementations on semiconductor-based technologies. Specifically, the PhD student will be involved in:

1) Studying the state-of-the-art techniques of quantum error correction and fault-tolerant computing.
2) Topological codes and surface code error correction.
3) Researching quantum error correction codes tailored to semiconductor hardware constructions.

The Ph.D. student will benefit intellectually from the interaction with internationally recognized researchers, well-equipped environments and the diverse community of the University. The candidate can also benefit from regular visits to the Cavendish laboratories (Cambridge University) in the UK, which will be covered by the grant.

Applicant Profile:

Qualifications: The candidate should possess an MSc degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Telecommunications Engineering or related fields.

Experience: The ideal candidate should have some knowledge and experience in some of the following topics:

• Quantum Physics.
• Classical / Quantum Information Theory.
• Quantum error mitigation.
• Classical / Quantum Error correction.
• Quantum computing and algorithms.

Skills: Programming expertise is required, especially in languages such as Matlab, Mathematica, Python or C/C++. Knowledge of QISKIT, Pennylane or similar quantum computing programming languages would be helpful but not mandatory.

Language Skills: Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are required. Communication skills in Spanish are not necessary although they may be helpful.

What you can expect at Tecnun:

Joining the Mathematical Principles of Information and Communication Group to conduct research on topics related to Quantum Computing represents a unique opportunity to become trained in otherwise hard to learn about scientific areas. Within this stimulating learning environment, the Ph.D. student will work alongside other students, post-docs and professors in order to further our current understanding of specific areas of Information Theory and Quantum Information with the goal of disseminating results through scientific publications. Moreover, the recent interest of the region of Gipuzkoa in topics related to quantum computing has created a wide research community with several organizations (IBM, DIPC, Materials Physics Center, Multiverse Computing, Opscura …) collaborating with our group. IBM has chosen San Sebastian to locate one of their quantum computers by 2025, which will be nearby the campus of Tecnun. Aside from this, the position comes with a competitive salary package. The University offers a 12 month-salary package, over six weeks of paid time off and health insurance. Moreover, the Ph.D. student will become part of a diverse and multicultural university environment with many international students. The campus is located in the beautiful coastal city of San Sebastian. Throughout the year, we organize team-building events, networking activities and students can take advantage of several opportunities for growth and career development, from free language classes to career resources and extracurricular activities.

Applications:

Applications should be submitted to jetxezarreta@unav.es , ro274@cam.ac.uk or ofertastecnun@tecnun.es and include:

• Full CV, including a list of publications if any.
• Name (and email address, etc.) of one/two reference letters.
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. The Tecnun School of Engineering and the University of Navarra embrace inclusion and diversity as key values. We are fully committed to removing any discriminatory barrier related to gender, and not only, in recruitment and career progression of our staff.