Master Thesis: Quantum Algorithms for Real-World Problems

Fraunhofer; Freiburg im Breisgau; On-site; EUR 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free parking & e-charging

Bike rental (Frelo)

Flexible working hours

Job summary

Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF in Freiburg im Breisgau is seeking two Master’s theses on using quantum algorithms to solve industrial problems. You will work on reformulating real-world problems for quantum algorithms and implement them with our HPC system, exploring scalability and performance across architectures.

The position is planned for about one year, starting in 2026, with flexible hours and opportunities for publication.

Qualifications

• Enrolled Master student in physics or a comparable programme.
• Solid knowledge of quantum mechanics.
• Experience in quantum algorithms is a plus.
• Knowledge of numerical methods and programming skills is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Reformulate real-world problems for quantum algorithms.
• Software implementation of algorithms and numerical investigations using our HPC system.
• Find ways to increase the efficiency of these quantum algorithms.
• Analyze the scaling and convergence properties of these quantum algorithms.

Skills

Quantum mechanics

Quantum algorithms

Programming skills

Education

Master student in physics

Job description

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft ( www.fraunhofer.com ) is one of the world's leading organizations for application-oriented research. 74institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society – more precisely: 30000 people from technology, science, administration and IT. They know: Anyone who comes to Fraunhofer wants to and can make a difference. For themselves, for us and for the markets of today and tomorrow.

At the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF we know our technologies like the back of our hand. Because we are one of the few scientific institutions worldwide to conduct research along the entire semiconductor value chain and on tailor‑made synthetic diamonds. Whether high‑frequency circuits for communications technology, voltage converter modules for electromobility, laser systems for measurement processes, or innovative hardware and software for quantum computers and quantum sensors: we develop tomorrow’s technology in‑house for a sustainable and secure society. When will you join us?

Be part of change

Our theory group invites applications for two master theses on using quantum algorithms to solve industrial problems. The specific problem considered is to solve real‑world industrial problems of concrete companies with the help of quantum algorithms. The goal is to understand the scaling behaviour of these solutions in comparison with state‑of‑the‑art classical solutions and to investigate the performance of these solutions on modern quantum computers of different architectures. The two master theses differ in the specific type of quantum computing approaches: (i) gate‑based quantum computing and (ii) analogue quantum computing.

You will have the opportunity to work both on basic scientific questions and gain insight into possible applications. This master’s project is planned for approcimately one year. The master’s project is expected to start in 2026.

Your work will focus on

• reformulating the real‑world problem in a way suitable for quantum algorithms
• software implementation of algorithms and numerical investigations using our high‑performance computing system
• finding ways to increase the efficience of these quantum algorithms.
• analyzing the scaling and convergence properties of these quantum algorithms

What you contribute

• enrolled Master student in physics or a comparable programme
• solid knowledge of quantum mechanics
• experience in quantum algorithms is a plus
• knowledge of numerical methods and programming skills are a plus

What we offer

• personal support on an equal footing and assistance from experienced scientists and professionals throughout your thesis
• broad education in quantum science and technology
• attractive topics with the prospect of publication
• space for independent work and creative participation
• interactions with fellow Master and PhD students
• flexible working hours that fit your studies
• an open and team‑oriented corporate culture that allows you to contribute your own ideas
• diverse and exciting tasks in the environment of an internationally renowned research institution
• free parking garage with e‑charging stations, as well as a Frelo station (bike rental system) and a bus stop directly at the institute

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part‑time basis. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilisation of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF
Human Resources
Tullastrasse 72
79108 Freiburg

Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF

Requisition Number: 86018 Application Deadline: