Postdoc – Computational quantum many-body physics

The development of quantum technologies and machine learning are two of the most dynamic research directions of our time. Within the Helmholtz Young Investigator Group “Machine Learning for Quantum Technology” we aspire to merge the parallel advancements of both fields, where quantum challenges match the natural strengths of machine learning and, reversely, the quantum applications call for the development of new machine learning techniques. Therefore, our research targets the exciting intersection of (non-equilibrium) quantum matter, quantum optics, quantum information, and machine learning with the goal of enabling benchmarking and control of quantum devices at the utmost of our computational toolbox. The Young Investigator Group is part of the Peter Grünberg Institute - Quantum Control (PGI-8) at Forschungszentrum Jülich, which specializes in novel optimal control strategies for emerging quantum technologies. Current research directions include tensor network methods, machine learning, in-situ optimal control, and quantum many-body phenomena.

Your Job:

A central objective of our work is the advancement of numerical simulation techniques based on neural quantum states. The underlying idea of this approach is to tackle the quantum curse of dimensionality by exploiting the proven merit of artificial neural networks for dealing with high-dimensional data. This new numerically exact technique can overcome existing limitations of established computational methods. Thereby, it opens up new areas for numerical investigations, which are at the same time brought into focus by recent developments in quantum simulation – for example with Rydberg atom arrays. Your tasks in detail will include:

• Method development to advance neural quantum states;
• Analyze the flow of (quantum) information in artificial neural networks;
• Simulate non-equilibrium dynamics with connection to quantum simulation experiments;
• Participate in international conferences in Germany and abroad (incl. presenting your research results);
• Prepare scientific publications and project reports;
• Co-supervise and support of Master and PhD students.

Your Profile:

• Excellent Master’s degree and PhD in Physics or in a related discipline, ideally with a specialization in quantum many-body physics;
• Coursework and experience in (a subset of) quantum mechanics, condensed matter physics, computational physics, statistical physics, non-equilibrium quantum many-body physics;
• Methodological competence: Strong programming skills, ideally including experience in deep learning and/or high performance computing;
• Passion for method development;
• Very good English communication skills – both verbal and written;
• Independent and analytical style of working;
• Interactive person with high degree of commitment.

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work;
• A highly motivated working group as well as an international and interdisciplinary working environment at one of Europe’s largest research establishments;
• Outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure;
• Opportunity to participate in (international) conferences and workshops;
• Further development of your own personal skills in combination with a socially balanced working environment;
• 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year);
• Flexible work (location) arrangements;
• Flexible working hours in a full-time position with the option of slightly reduced working hours;
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service.

To apply, please submit a complete CV, letter of motivation, university degree records, as well as two contacts who can provide reference letters. Applications will be reviewed on a running basis.

We offer you an exciting and varied role in an international and interdisciplinary working environment. The position is initially for a fixed term of 2 years. Salary and social benefits will conform to the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) depending on the applicant’s qualifications and the precise nature of the tasks assigned to them.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

Questions about the offer?

Please feel free to contact us via our contact form.

Please note that for technical reasons we cannot accept applications by e-mail.