Assistant Professor of HPC Simulation of Quantum Algorithms

The Department of Mathematical Sciences invites applications for an Assistant Professor position in HPC Simulation of Quantum Algorithms. The position is associated to the Centre for the Mathematics of Quantum Theory (QMATH) and the Quantum for Life Center. The application deadline is November 20, 2025, and the starting date is March 1, 2026. The position is time-limited for four (4) years.

The development of quantum algorithms is speeding up in step with the fast developments of the quantum hardware needed to run them. Important here is a precise understanding of the speed and viability of the developed algorithmic idea. In addition to theoretical analyses, simulations on traditional computing infrastructure has emerged as an important tool for the algorithmic development, since the quantum hardware is often too strongly limited in size or too noisy. As there is a large overhead in such simulations, high-performance computing (HPC) tools are required to perform such simulations in useful regimes. At the same time, large computational resources are being setup, both in Denmark and internationally. In order to seize this opportunity, we therefore invite applications for an assistant professorship in HPC Simulation of Quantum Algorithms. The candidate is expected to have experience with quantum algorithms, as well as a theoretical understanding and experience in the practical implementation thereof on high-performance computers. 

The assistant professor’s duties will primarily include research, including obligations with regard to publication/scientific communication and research-based teaching with associated examination obligations within Theoretical Quantum Information Science, high-performance computation and adjacent fields. To a limited extent this may also include performance of other duties.

Assessment of applicants will primarily consider their level of documented, internationally competitive research. The ability to attract external funding will be considered together with outreach qualifications. Teaching qualifications are not mandatory but documented teaching qualifications and teaching experience will be considered.

Six overall criteria apply for assistant professor appointments at the University of Copenhagen. The six criteria (research, teaching, societal impact, organisational contribution, external funding and leadership) are considered a framework for the overall assessment of candidates. Furthermore, each candidate must be assessed according to the specific requirements stated in the job advertisement. Please read more at https://jobportal.ku.dk/videnskabelige-stillinger/kriterier-for-videnskabelige-stillinger/dokumenter-til-meritering/5a_Criteria_for_recognising_merit_-Assistant_professors.pdf .

The QMATH centre is hosted by the Department of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen and is led by the professors Jan Philip Solovej, Matthias Christandl and Bergfinnur Durhuus (Emeritus). Approximately 16 PhD students and 19 Postdocs are associated with the centre.

The goal is to contribute to our mathematical understanding of quantum physics with special emphasis on the interplay between quantum matter and quantum information.

The centre's research area lies in the intersection of mathematics, physics and computer science. It is motivated by the emerging recognition of the surprising informational aspects of quantum physics with its potential use in quantum communication and long-term prospect of building a quantum computer.

The Quantum for Life Centre is an interdisciplinary research centre funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. By combining research in quantum physic, mathematics, chemistry and data science, the goal of the centre is to develop strategies for the quantum simulation of biomolecules, and to show proof-of-principle demonstrations of their main functioning on atom-based experimental platforms.

Inquiries about the position can be made to Professor Matthias Christandl christandl@math.ku.dk or Professor Jan Philip, solovej@math.ku.dk .

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 employment
The position is time-limited for four 4 years.  The position is open from March 1, 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• If available, description and documentation of teaching and supervision experience and qualifications - please describe and document:
  • Experience with supervision of BSc and MSc students
  • Teaching experience
  • Formal pedagogical training
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 5 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is November 20, 2025, 23:59 GMT +1.

 After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Please refer to the following no. in future communication in this case: 211-0531/25-2A.