PhD position – Sample-efficient quantum gate calibration

The Peter Grünberg Institute for Quantum Control (PGI-8) at the Forschungszentrum Jülich specializes in novel optimization strategies for emerging quantum technologies. These technologies aim to provide transformative changes to our society, including how we think about information, unlocking vast calculations for the natural sciences, logistical problem solving, and high-performance computation. Our group has pioneered the application of quantum optimal control methods to quantum computation and many-body quantum systems, including the development of physical models, model reduction techniques, and algorithmic advances in in-situ optimization and machine learning for scalable quantum devices.

Your Job:

Among other applications, optimal control theory has proven its utility for the optimal calibration of quantum gates. The calibration is typically based on a figure of merit derived from experimental data, such as the average gate fidelity provided by the randomized benchmarking protocol. In realistic scenarios, these quantities require significant measurement effort to be estimated, especially in the high-precision regime relevant for fault-tolerant quantum computing.
You will investigate recent advances in characterization and benchmarking protocols for their suitability to provide efficient cost functions for optimal control of gate calibration in full-stack quantum computers and simulators. Based on your assessment, you will develop new, sample-efficient optimal control approaches for gate calibration and test them in numerical simulations. You will pursue your research with the German research collaboration QSolid, coordinated by Forschungszentrum Jülich. You will work with experts in quantum optimal control at Forschungszentrum Jülich and in quantum characterization at the University of Cologne. We aim to implement your results in in-house experiments at Forschungszentrum Jülich.

In this position you will:

• Assess methods and ideas in quantum characterization for their sample efficiency and adapt them for quantum gate calibration.
• Develop techniques to simulate and control the dynamics for increasing system complexities.
• Implement and optimize the relevant quantum circuits on atomic and superconducting processors.
• Cooperate and actively work with experimental partners developing quantum processors using this technological platform.
• Design and implement optimization techniques for full-stack improvement of quantum algorithms.
• Model major sources of experimental error for control theory or for error mitigation techniques.

Your Profile:

• Masters degree in physics (or in a related subject).
• Background and strong interest in developing theoretical models and methods as well as implementing numerical optimization techniques.
• Interest in working closely with experimentalists.
• Detailed knowledge of quantum physics and experience with quantum technology.
• Strong mathematical education, particularly in linear algebra.
• Strong programming experience.
• Ability to effectively communicate in written and spoken English.
• Ability to work autonomously and in close interaction within a team.
• Most importantly: enthusiasm to explore uncharted territory, develop, and follow your own ideas.

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and offer you the chance to actively help shape the change! We provide ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• Opportunity to conduct research at the interface of theory and experiment in a world-leading group in quantum control.
• Work in a highly motivated research group as part of an international and interdisciplinary working environment with access to outstanding computing facilities and connections to the best research institutions around the world.
• Continuous scientific mentoring by your scientific advisor as well as feedback and expertise from the whole group in multiple facets of quantum technology and optimization.
• Opportunity to participate in international conferences and project meetings.
• Participation in overarching seminars including certificate.
• The skills you will acquire during your Ph.D. are in high demand both in academia and in high-tech companies.
• Opportunity to develop your strengths through a comprehensive training programme designed for Jülich’s doctoral researchers.
• 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends.

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. The salary is in line with pay group 13 (75 %) of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund). In addition, an annual special payment is granted (“Christmas payment”), which amounts to 60 % of the monthly salary. Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich is available on their website. We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, including age, gender, disability, sexual orientation/identity, and social, ethnic, and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment is important to us.

How to apply

We look forward to receiving your application. The job will be advertised until the position has been successfully filled. You should therefore submit your application as soon as possible via the provided link.

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