Theory and simulation expert

Niels Bohr Institute at Faculty of Science, the University of Copenhagen is looking for a Theory and simulation expert with effect from 1 September 2024.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) is establishing a talented and diverse international team to create a cutting-edge quantum programme in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. At the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, where the formulation of Quantum Mechanics was born 100 years ago, we aim to establish an international quantum computing programme, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, that will drive research and innovations at multiple levels - from developing scalable quantum processor technologies to solutions for the quantum-classical control and readout interface, and all the way to quantum algorithms and applications. The long-term mission of the programme is to develop fault-tolerant quantum computing hardware and quantum algorithms that solve life-science-relevant chemical and biological problems.

Role description
NQCP is looking for a simulation expert within quantum material and/or circuit components, who also has a passion for quantum education. You will be part of a thriving quantum eco-system at the Niels Bohr Institute interacting with international/national collaborators, students and on-site quantum companies specialized on e.g. qubit measurements and quantum error correction algorithms. The candidate will be part of the NQCP Theory and Simulation team (70%) who work closely with the NQCP Quantum Engineering teams in the quest of identifying truly scalable processors for fault tolerant quantum computing. In addition the candidate will be part of the NQCP Education and Outreach team (30%) focusing on quantum education and workforce development.

The tasks within Theory and Simulation (T&S) involve designing and understanding quantum circuits for several types of quantum processors, giving you the opportunity to develop a broad quantum technology expertise and push ideas as well as optimal solutions for the different platforms. Your components and material simulations will be essential input for realizing improved quantum computing hardware, which will be fabricated and characterized by the NQCP Fabrication and Characterization teams to establish feedback loops. Furthermore, your simulations will contribute to identifying the most promising platform for scalable fault tolerant quantum computing (as a part of the NQCP pathfinder phase 2025-29), setting the grounds for the scaling phase of the NQCP programme[xxxxx]). The programme has a strong focus on materials R&D for realizing state of the art quantum processor technologies, which will be synthesized in ultra-high vacuum facilities as it is expected to be essential for improving qubit performance through material optimization (multimillion DKK investment by the partnership company Quantum Foundry P/S).

In addition you will be the Theory and Simulation expert of the NQCP Education and Outreach (E&O) team. Your overall E&O responsibility is to make latest results form the NQCP Theory and Simulations team accessible to non-experts. The E&O tasks include designing and developing teaching materials/platforms, making your T&S expertise available for quantum training at all levels, and to help inspire coming generations of students. As part of the E&O team you will be sparring with the members on various aspects of quantum workforce development.

Qualifications
The successful candidate will have some of the following qualifications:   

• Master or PhD in physics, engineering, chemistry, computer science, or related.
• Experience (industrial and/or academic) with finite element method simulations using software such as COMSOL, Qiskit Metal, Lumerical, Ansys, Sonnet or similar.
• Experience with simulations of quantum computing hardware, microwave engineering such as circuit QED and/or integrated photonic components, is preferred.
• Experience with working in a collaborative environment with both theoretical and experimental groups.
• Experience with and passion for quantum training at the university level.
• Familiarity with and ideas for new quantum educational platforms.
• Good communication skills and ability to coordinate the work in a complex research program.

Why Us?
Joining NQCP now, you will be involved from the very beginning and contribute to the fulfilment of the mission of NQCP. We want to make Denmark a world leader in quantum research, and we hope to attract people from all over the world.

Life in Denmark is supported with strong social services (free universal healthcare, free/subsidised language courses, paid parental leave, subsidised day care institutions and excellent public schools). Our work culture is very egalitarian and prioritises work life balance. Dual career families are the norm, and workplaces offer flexibility to support everyone in having both an exciting career and good family time. Danish cities are known for having excellent infrastructure, for example through widespread bike path networks. We can also offer a thriving food-scene, excellent museums, and beautiful natural scenery.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of salary and employment
The employment and salary are made in accordance with the Circular on the Collective Agreement concerning academics in the state sector concluded between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).

Employment will be as academic officer or specialconsultant. The salary is based on seniority. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The working time are 37 hours per week on average and the working hours are flexible.

The position is limited in time until 31 December 2029.

Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance.

UCPH is in the process of designing a new shared administrative organisation at UCPH, which is expected to lead to changes within the next 12 - 18 months. The purpose of the administrative reform is, among other things, to strengthen cross-organisational cooperation, increase efficiency, and ensure good career paths for administrative staff members at UCPH. The reform will lead to cutbacks on administration. You are encouraged to contact Head of Administration Rasmus Rydahl, [xxxxx] to learn more about the connection between this position and the administrative reform.

Your application
If you find the job interesting, please send an electronic application in English with attachment via Jobportalen (click on the link "Apply Now" at the bottom of the post) no later than June 28, 2024, 23:59 GMT +2.

The University of Copenhagen seeks to reflect society and encourages applications irrespective of personal background.

Further information
For further information please contact Kim Splittorff [xxxxx] or Peter Krogstrup [xxxxx]

The Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen – or SCIENCE – is Denmark's largest science research and education institution with 4,000 employees and 9,700 Bachelor and master students in 12 departments. The faculty has an annual budget of DKK 3 billion.

Learn more about The Faculty of Science at [xxxxx]

You can read about the recruitment process at [xxxxx]

Kilde: [xxxxx]