The development of quantum technologies and machine learning are two of the most dynamic research directions of our time. Within the Helmholtz Young Investigator Group “Machine Learning for Quantum Technology” we aspire to merge the parallel advancements of both fields, where quantum challenges match the natural strengths of machine learning and, reversely, the quantum applications call for the development of new machine learning techniques. Therefore, our research targets the exciting intersection of (non-equilibrium) quantum matter, quantum optics, quantum information, and machine learning with the goal of enabling benchmarking and control of quantum devices at the utmost of our computational toolbox.

The Young Investigator Group is part of the Peter Grünberg Institute - Quantum Control (PGI-8) at Forschungszentrum Jülich, which specializes in novel optimal control strategies for emerging quantum technologies. Current research directions include tensor network methods, machine learning, in-situ optimal control, and quantum model reduction techniques.

We are offering a

PhD Position – Computational quantum many-body physics

Your Job:

A central objective of our work is the advancement of numerical simulation techniques based on neural quantum states. The underlying idea of this approach is to tackle the quantum curse of dimensionality by exploiting the proven merit of artificial neural networks for dealing with high-dimensional data. This new numerically exact technique can overcome existing limitations of established computational methods. Thereby, it opens up new areas for numerical investigations, which are at the same time brought into focus by recent developments in quantum simulation – for example with Rydberg atom arrays. Your tasks in detail will be:

• Method development to advance neural quantum states
  
• Simulation of non-equilibrium dynamics with connection to quantum simulation experiments
  
• Participation in international conferences in Germany and abroad (incl. presenting your research results)
  
• Preparing scientific publications and project reports
  
• Early-on co-tutoring of younger students

Your Profile:

• Masters degree in Physics, ideally with a specialization in quantum many-body physics
  
• Coursework and experience in (a subset of) quantum mechanics, condensed matter physics, computational physics, statistical physics, non-equilibrium quantum many-body physics
  
• Methodological competence: Strong programming skills, ideally including experience in deep learning and/or high performance computing
  
• Very good English communication skills – both verbal and written
  
• High degree of independence and commitment
  
• Very reliable and conscientious style of working
  
• Excellent ability to cooperate and work in a team

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:

• A highly motivated working group as well as an international and interdisciplinary working environment at one of Europe’s largest research establishments
  
• Outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure
  
• Opportunity to participate in (international) conferences, schools, and workshops
  
• Continuous scientific mentoring by your scientific advisors
  
• A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work
  
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/judocs
  
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
  

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

To apply, please submit a complete CV, letter of motivation, university degree records (both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree), as well as two reference donors.

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.

We look forward to receiving your application until 29.05.2022 via our
Online-Recruitment-System!