Within the focused research project “Hybrid Quantum Chemistry on Hybrid Quantum Computers”, recently funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, we are seeking several postdoctoral fellows to work on the development of quantum chemical methods and software for the prediction of molecular properties on hybrid classic-quantum architectures involving IBM’s NISQ quantum computers.
The “Hybrid Quantum Chemistry on Hybrid Quantum Computers” project is a joint effort of the research groups of professor Stephan P. A. Sauer at the Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen (UCPH), professor Sonia Coriani at the Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark (DTU), and professor Jacob Kongsted at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark (SDU).
This job advertisement is for one postdoctoral position of three-year duration at DTU Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, with expected start date January 1, 2023, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Responsibilities and qualifications
The project “Hybrid Quantum Chemistry on Hybrid Quantum Computers” is at the border of quantum computing and quantum chemistry. You will work on the development of quantum chemical methods and software for the prediction of molecular properties on hybrid classic-quantum architectures involving IBM’s NISQ quantum computers.
As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent), in either Quantum Information Science, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Chemistry, and documented prior experience with either quantum computing or quantum chemistry, or both.
Experience with quantum computing software libraries like IBM’s Qiskit would be an advantage. Applicants not familiar with quantum chemistry are expected to learn about it during their employment.
The ideal candidate is a good communicator in both written and spoken English, is independent, and enjoys collaborating with others from diverse backgrounds as well as supporting more junior group members. After a startup period, eight early career researchers in total (2 postdocs and 1 PhD student at both UCPH and DTU, and 2 postdocs at SDU) will work jointly on different parts of this common project. The project thus provides a vibrant scientific environment.
The postdoc’s duties include research within quantum chemistry on quantum computers including software development, scientific dissemination of the results in scientific articles and at conferences, as well as teaching. The position may also imply performance of other departmental duties and involve regular travels to the two other universities (UCPH, SDU) participating in the project.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The postdoctoral position is full-time and fully-funded for three years.
The employment implies benefits as employer-paid pension, paid holidays and paid maternity leave. Foreign applicants may also be eligible for a special reduced-taxation scheme. Salary negotiations may be possible.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Enquires about the position may be made to Professor Sonia Coriani, soco@kemi.dtu.dk.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than Tuesday 22 November 2022, at 23:59 GMT+1. Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- Motivational letter (cover letter)
- Research Statement – description of previous experience with quantum computing/quantum chemistry and interests for the future
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
- Separate reprints of up to 3 particularly relevant papers
- List of up to three scientists with whom you have closely worked in your past research, whom we may contact for references
Incomplete applications or applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
After the expiry of the deadline, the applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Shortlisting and interviews may be used in the recruitment process.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU Chemistry
DTU Chemistry is an internationally leading institute with research and teaching in the main areas of chemistry: physical (incl. theoretical and computational), biophysical, organic and inorganic chemistry. Academic excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship are core to the Department’s research activities and are drivers of academic and industrial collaborations, spin-outs, and high impact publications. The Department has a long-standing tradition of training PhD students and Postdoc fellows who move on to successful careers within academia and industry. The department actively contributes to basic chemical research, where the aim is to further develop the methods and concepts of chemistry and to explain and uncover connections. The research has often strong relationships with neighboring areas such as physics, nanotechnology, biochemistry, and takes place in close collaboration with industry and universities at home and abroad. Many research projects are also closely linked to applications in areas such as e.g. energy, pharmaceuticals, catalysis and materials. The institute has approx. 180 employees.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,400 students and 5,800 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
Apply for this job
Apply no later than 22 November 2022
Apply for the job at DTU Chemistry by completing the following form.
