At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in quantum computation and error suppression techniques.
- Company: Join a world-leading institution ranked #2 globally in computing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 39 days off, and extensive career development support.
- Other info: Flexible work balance between analytical and numerical tasks with access to high-performance computing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge quantum research with industry collaboration.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field or equivalent experience; strong research background required.
The predicted salary is between 45399 - 48876 £ per year.
Dr Zhenyu Cai’s research group in the Department of Computing seeks a highly motivated and exceptionally talented quantum theorist to lead projects aimed at developing a full-stack approach to suppressing errors in quantum hardware. This research focuses on achieving practical quantum computation by integrating techniques ranging from hardware-level noise suppression, quantum error mitigation, all the way to full fault-tolerant computation.
The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge theoretical research in topics including (but not limited to):
- Quantum architectures, compilation, and scalable quantum systems
- Quantum error correction
- Quantum error mitigation
- Hardware implementation of quantum error correction/mitigation protocols
This post is primarily funded by the EPSRC Quantum Technologies Fellowship held by Dr Cai. Although theory-focused, the position encourages engagement with experimental partners, including those in industry. The project will support research visits and joint activities with these collaborators. The research will involve both analytical work and numerical computations. The balance between analytical and numerical type work is flexible and can depend on the preferences and skills of the successful applicant. Access to high-performance computing facilities and cloud-based quantum hardware will be provided to support the simulation and verification of theoretical methods.
A PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research/industrial experience is required. Practical experience within a research environment and publication in relevant and refereed journals/conferences in the field of quantum computation is essential. Experience of dealing with industry partners and research collaborators is also necessary. Experience of error correction simulation using packages like Stim and/or conducting large quantum circuit simulation and experience of scientific programming involving HPC or GPU systems; experience of participating in collaborative software projects; use of GitHub or similar are desirable.
You will have the opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution. Imperial College is currently ranked #2 in the QS world university rankings with the Department of Computing ranked top of the 2021 UK REF assessment. You will receive a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year) and a comprehensive early career development support package including 10 training and development days.
In addition to completing the online application candidates should attach:
- A full CV, highlighting publications or preprints relevant to the position
- A 1-page research statement on how your experience meets the above requirements.
If you require any further details on the role, please contact Dr Zhenyu Cai: z.cai1@imperial.ac.uk. For queries regarding the application process contact Jamie Perrins: j.perrins@imperial.ac.uk.
Research Associate in Quantum Computation employer: Imperial College London
As a Section Manager at Imperial College, you will thrive in a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing research for the benefit of humanity. Enjoy a competitive salary and an impressive benefits package, including 41 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and access to on-site leisure facilities. Join a diverse and inclusive work culture that prioritises your personal and professional growth, making it an exceptional place to build your career.
