PhD student in compilation of quantum algorithms to quantum hardware

We are looking for a PhD student to optimize compilation of programs that are to be run on our quantum computers. Improving the compilation of abstract quantum algorithms into hardware-specific instructions is crucial to make quantum computers useful. The work in this project is to explore and improve methods to (1) map logical qubits in a hardware-agnostic quantum algorithm to physical qubits in specific quantum-computing hardware, (2) insert a minimum number of extra operations to connect qubits that need to interact but are not nearest neighbours after the initial mapping, and (3) compress the resulting quantum circuit as much as possible. One tool for tackling all these problems is machine learning.

Information about the research project
This project is part of QuantumStack, a 5-year project funded by the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research, with the aim of developing a full software stack for programming quantum computers. The project is integrated with the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT), a 12-year, billion-SEK initiative started in 2018 with the purpose of advancing Swedish academia and industry to the forefront of quantum technology, and to build a Swedish quantum computer. Our ambitious goal at Chalmers is to build this quantum computer with 100 superconducting qubits and to apply it to real computational problems that cannot be efficiently solved on a conventional computer. Such computationally hard problems are found, e.g., in optimization, quantum chemistry, materials science, machine learning, etc.

Building a quantum computer requires a multi-disciplinary effort involving experimental and theoretical physicists, electrical and microwave engineers, computer scientists, software engineers, and researchers in materials science and nanotechnology. We are developing the superconducting quantum devices, control circuits, firmware, and methods required to make the quantum computer a reality. This development takes place is in a close, fruitful collaboration between experimentalists in the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTL) and theorists at the Applied Quantum Physics Laboratory (AQPL) and the Department for Computer Science and Engineering. In this collaboration, the main tasks of the theorists are to help model the hardware and to develop application use cases for the quantum processor. Our team is also a prominent partner in the internationally competitive OpenSuperQ collaborative project working to build a quantum computer within the EU Flagship on Quantum Technology.

Our WACQT team at Chalmers currently has about 80 members (faculty, permanent research staff, postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, and undergraduate students) and is expanding. WACQT is committed to promoting career development, diversity, and gender equality through networking and supporting activities.

Our department Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2) is host to the state-of-the-art MC2 Nanotechnology Laboratory cleanroom, the largest such facility in Northern Europe, and our measurement lab at QTL is well equipped with cryogenic and microwave electronic equipment. We are in a position to build and operate large-scale quantum processors!

Major responsibilities
The main responsibilities as a PhD student at Chalmers consist of pursuing doctoral studies by conducting research within your project, in collaboration and independently, leading to results that you will publish in journals and present at meeting and conferences.

Your studies also include coursework in your field and common core courses on generic and transferable skills. The position generally also includes teaching on the undergraduate level or other duties corresponding to up to 20 per cent of working hours.

Qualifications
Required qualifications:
*Master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or equivalent
*Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English
*Ability to program in high-level languages such as Python or C
*Experience in machine learning

Desired qualifications:
*Experience from working on quantum computing

We value a collaborative attitude and an interest in working both in teams and independently. Self-motivation, attention to detail, and a problem-solving analytical ability are important personal qualities for this position.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of 5 years, depending on the amount of teaching and other duties you perform during your doctoral project.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Learn more and apply on Chalmers website: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=10663&rmlang=UK

Application deadline: August 31, 2022

For questions, please contact:
Dr. Anton Frisk Kockum, AQP
Email: anton.frisk.kockum@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 73 770 55 25

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!