Postdoc Automated Reasoning in Quantum Computing (0.8-1.0 FTE)

Vacancy number 14720

Job type Academic staff

Hours (in fte) 0,8-1,0

External/ internal External

Location Leiden

Placed on 2 April 2024

Closing date 30 April 2024 27 more days to apply

The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) are looking for a:

Postdoc Automated Reasoning in Quantum Computing (0.8-1.0 FTE)

The Faculty of Science, Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS), is looking for candidates for a Postdoctoral Researcher (0.8-1.0 FTE) working at the crossroad between Quantum Computing and Automated Reasoning. Reasoning engines, like SAT solvers and model counters can be used as oracles in computationally demanding tasks such as quantum circuit compilation. Moreover, quantum algorithms have yet to be augmented with the powerful heuristics developed in classical reasoning.

We are looking for individuals with an excellent academic record interested in the development of new quantum circuit compilation techniques and quantum algorithms based on classical automated reasoning. The project focuses on harnessing the strengths of classical heuristics in quantum computing. For instance, the classical conflict driven clause learning (CDCL) heuristic offers exponential advantages over other methods. Without such heuristics, the search for quantum supremacy in constraint solving will be impeded. The project therefore aims to quantize such classical heuristics. At the same time, it aims to leverage classical reasoning engines to development of novel solutions for quantum circuit optimization, quantum circuit synthesis and formal verification of quantum circuits.

You will collaborate with Prof.Dr. Vedran Dunjko, chair of the aQa group, and Dr. Alfons Laarman, leading the System Verification Lab. Further, you are expected to work well in our culture of cross-group collaboration. No teaching duties are assigned to this position, but you are expected to help in assisting with the supervision of students.

The level of the position will be commensurate with your level of experience.

We offer:

• A four-year postdoc position, with an initial contract of one year;
• Freedom to implement your own research agenda, in connection with abovementioned topics;
• A large team of other Postdocs and PhDs, to collaborate with and co-supervise;
• An exciting research environment within the Quantum Delta NL hub Leiden;

Selection criteria:

• Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field;
• Good publication record in Quantum Computing, Formal Methods or related field;
• Able to work independently, in a team, and in a student (co-)supervisory role;
• An academic, creative, and open mindset;
• Good to excellent proficiency in English is required;

Research at our Faculty/Institute

The Leiden Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. Our people are driven by curiosity to expand fundamental knowledge and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is diverse, ranging from artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry, and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 1,300 staff and almost 4,000 students. We are located at the heart of one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

The Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) is the Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Institute of the Faculty of Science of Leiden University. We offer courses at the Bachelor and Master of Science level in the core areas of Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and Data Science, and in the interdisciplinary areas of ICT in Business, Media Technology and Creative Science, and Bioinformatics. We are a highly international place to do research, and we strive for excellence in a caring institute, where excellence, fun, and inclusiveness go hand in hand. We offer a clear and inviting career path to young and talented scientists with the ambition to grow.

Terms and conditions
We offer a full-time position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the research and personal compatibility, the appointment can be extended further for one. The salary ranges, depending on qualifications and experience, from € 3.226,- to € 5.090,- gross per month (pay scale 10 in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%), training, and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions.

Diversity and inclusivity
Fostering an inclusive community is a central element of the values and vision of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community that enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High-quality teaching and research are inclusive.

Information
Inquiries can be made to Dr. Alfons Laarman: a.w.laarman@liacs.leidenuniv.nl
If you have questions about the procedure please contact Anne-Marie Alleblas, jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.

Application
Please submit online your application via the blue button in the vacancy. Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number.

• A short cover letter (1 page) detailing your motivation to apply for the position,
• A brief description of your research plan,
• A full CV including a list of publications, eventual grant acquisition and community services, and a link to your Google Scholar page,
• Links to key publications and Ph.D. thesis when appropriate,
• The names and addresses of at least two persons that can be contacted for reference (who have agreed to be contacted).

Only applications received before April 30, 2024 can be considered.