Postdoc position in quantum algorithms on near-term devices at the University of Rhode Island

Application deadline: 

Saturday, May 31, 2025

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The research group of Prof. Wenchao Ge (https://sites.google.com/view/wenchaoge) in the Department of Physics at the University of Rhode Island invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in theoretical quantum information science and engineering (QISE). The successful candidate will conduct theoretical research in hybrid quantum-classical algorithms on near-term quantum devices supported by National Science Foundations through the NSF ExpandQISE program (https://new.nsf.gov/news/quantum-science-engineering-expands-across-nati...). Topics of interest include but are not limited to, quantum entanglement and spin squeezing, quantum approximate optimization algorithms, and benchmarking protocols with different quantum platforms, such as neutral atoms, trapped ions, and superconducting qubits. The successful candidate will also collaborate with Prof. Ilya Safro at the University of Delaware on designing, analyzing, and implementing quantum algorithms.

The group of Prof. Ge has collaborations with leading QISE research institutions, including NIST, Army Research Lab, Rice University, and QISE industry (IBM Quantum, QuEra, and AWS). The Physics Department has launched a quantum information science initiative with the goal of becoming a regional hub for education and research. The initiative includes an MS program in Quantum Computing, an online graduate certificate in Quantum Computing, and a commitment from the University’s President to make Quantum Information Science a main priority. In addition, the University is located in a beautiful place to live with coastal sceneries.

To be considered for this position, a Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field is required. The candidate should be experienced in Python, algorithms, and quantum computing-related software infrastructure, such as Qiskit, Pennylane, Classiq, and CUDA-Quantum. The candidate also needs to have excellent writing and oral communication skills in English. The initial appointment is for one year with possible extensions depending on performance. The expected starting date is September 2025, but the actual date is negotiable. Competitive compensation for the position will be provided, and travel support is available.

To apply, please send Dr. Ge the following information directly (email: wenchao.ge@uri.edu): a CV with a list of publications, a cover letter describing your research experience and relevance to the position advertised, and the contact information of three references. Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue until the position is filled.