Research Associate in Optimal Quantum

About the role

We are looking for a candidate with experience in optimal quantum control for the collaborative QuantERA project FALCON. The successful candidate is expected to design optimised driving schemes that allow the experimental partner in Innsbruck (UIBK & AQT) to implement entangling gates with trapped ions that achieve high fidelities under practical conditions, i.e. at finite temperature and without accurate calibration.

The candidate should have strong interest in collaborative work, and they should collaborate both with the experimental partner in Innsbruck and with the theory partner in Sofia.

What you would be doing

Your main role would be the design of optimised driving patterns for the realisation of noise-resilient quantum gates of trapped ions. Together with the other consortium partners you would identify the main sources of imperfections in the consortium’s experiments that result in reduction of gate fidelities, and you would develop optimal control solutions to achieve resilience to the identified imperfections.

You would use both analytical and numerical tools for your work, and you would interact on a regular basis with all the project partners.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a candidate who holds a PhD with theoretical/numerical work in the fields of quantum information/quantum technologies. Additional experience as Postdoc is desired but not necessary.

You should have a strong interest in collaborative work, and the ability to communicate with experimental partners.

Ideally, you would have a strong background in optimal control and it’s application to quantum-optical systems.

What we can offer you

What we can offer you the opportunity to grow in your career at a world-leading institution within a collaborative European project on the interface between academia and the quantum tech industry

Access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers

Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information

This is a full-time (35 hours per week), fixed-term role based at our South Kensington Campus.

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant

The Department of Physics is proud to hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising our commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and thriving community. We value the strength that comes from diverse perspectives, and we warmly welcome applications from talented people of all backgrounds, and particularly those underrepresented in physics, to join our vibrant community supported by initiatives that promote collaboration, inclusivity, and professional development.

Please note that this is a readvertisement. Those candidates who have previously applied cannot apply again.

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Queries relating to the application process should be directed to Light Community Administrator, Sunita Aubeeluck - light@imperial.ac.uk

Queries relating to the research project should be directed to Professor Florian Mintert f.mintert@ic.ac.uk