Senior Researcher Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing

Quantum Flagship; Köln; Vor Ort; EUR 90.000 - 130.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Permanent position

High‑Impact projects

Collaborative environment

Flexible work arrangements

Zusammenfassung

neQxt in Germany is seeking a Senior Researcher in Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing to advance the fault-tolerant stack. You will focus on decoders and logical-level quantum algorithms, addressing how information is processed reliably in large-scale, error-corrected systems.

The role involves developing decoding strategies under realistic noise, designing and evaluating quantum algorithms, and contributing to modular fault-tolerant architectures.

Qualifikationen

• A PhD in Physics, CS, Math, EE or related field is required with specializations in quantum information, QECC or algorithms.
• Expertise in decoding QECC or fault-tolerant quantum algorithms is essential.
• Experience with research publications or impactful software is expected.

Aufgaben

• Conduct research on decoding QEC codes under circuit-level noise and fault-tolerant algorithms.
• Develop, analyze, and benchmark decoding methods within fault-tolerant architectures.
• Contribute to models, tools, and methods for large-scale quantum systems.

Kenntnisse

Quantum information

Quantum error correction

Fault-tolerant algorithms

Decoding QEC

Research publications

Independent work

Ausbildung

PhD in Physics

PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Mathematics

PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

QEC simulators

Scientific Python

Matlab

Simulation software

Jobbeschreibung

Senior Researcher Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing

neQxt is a trailblazing company at the forefront of quantum computing technology. With decades of expertise in ion-trap technology, neQxt was founded at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany, emerging from the renowned research group of Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Schmidt-Kaler.

At neQxt, our theory team explores the principles that make scalable quantum computing possible. We study how fault tolerance can be realized under realistic conditions, designing circuits, developing simulation methods, and analyzing noise at the circuit level. A key part of our work is to understand trade-offs between different approaches and how they can be embedded into modular architectures. We aim to connect theoretical insights with practical feasibility, developing techniques that move fault tolerance closer to realization. By building tools, models, and architectures, we provide a bridge between abstract principles and the requirements of physical quantum processors.

Position Overview

We are seeking Senior Researchers in Fault‑Tolerant Quantum Computing to contribute to the development of key components of the fault‑tolerant stack. These roles focus on decoders and quantum algorithms at the logical level, addressing how quantum information can be processed reliably in large‑scale, error‑corrected systems. The positions involve developing and analyzing decoding strategies under realistic noise models, as well as designing and evaluating quantum algorithms within fault‑tolerant architectures, including resource estimation and logical‑level optimization. The emphasis is on rigorous, hands‑on research that advances the performance, scalability, and understanding of error‑corrected quantum computation. A central aspect of the role is contributing to the integration of these methods into modular fault‑tolerant architectures, ensuring consistency between algorithmic, decoding, and system‑level considerations.

Qualifications

• Education: A PhD in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required. Specializations in quantum information, quantum error correction, or quantum algorithms are highly preferred.
• Specializations: Expertise in one or more of the following areas:
• Decoding of Quantum Error Correcting Codes, including development and analysis of decoding algorithms under realistic noise models
• Fault‑Tolerant Quantum Algorithms, including logical‑level circuit design, resource estimation, and compilation within error‑corrected architectures
• Theoretical and numerical methods for analyzing fault‑tolerant systems at scale
• Software development for simulation and evaluation of quantum computing architectures
• Experience:
• Demonstrated expertise in quantum error correction (with a focus on decoding or fault‑tolerant quantum algorithms), supported by a strong publication record or impactful software contributions.
• Ability to work independently on technically demanding problems and to contribute to complex research efforts in fault‑tolerant quantum computing.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on decoding QEC codes under circuit‑level noise or fault‑tolerant quantum algorithms, with a focus on performance, scalability, and theoretical understanding.
• Develop, analyze, and benchmark decoding methods or logical‑level algorithmic approaches within fault‑tolerant architectures.
• Contribute to the development of models, tools, and methods for analyzing large‑scale, error‑corrected quantum systems.
• Work closely with other researchers to integrate results into broader architectural and simulation frameworks.
• Produce high‑quality research outcomes, including publications, software tools, and technical reports.
• Track and incorporate relevant advances in fault‑tolerant quantum computing into ongoing work.

Our Offer

• Permanent Position: A long‑term role with the opportunity to contribute continuously to the development of fault‑tolerant quantum computing within a focused research environment.
• High‑Impact Projects: Work on meaningful, transformative challenges that push the boundaries of quantum technology.
• Collaborative Environment: Join a team of passionate experts dedicated to advancing quantum computing through shared knowledge and mentorship. Publish and present our work at international workshops and conferences.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Enjoy a supportive and adaptable work environment designed to help you achieve your best results.

Ideal Candidates

We are looking for researchers with a strong technical focus and a deep interest in fault‑tolerant quantum computing. You should be comfortable working on mathematically and computationally demanding problems, and motivated to develop methods that directly impact the performance and scalability of error‑corrected quantum systems. Candidates should bring clear expertise in either QECC decoders or fault‑tolerant quantum algorithms, and be interested in how these components fit into a coherent fault‑tolerant framework. A strong inclination toward rigorous analysis, quantitative evaluation, and the development of practical methods is essential. This role is well suited for individuals who prefer hands‑on research, enjoy working through concrete technical challenges, and want to contribute directly to the core mechanisms that enable large‑scale quantum computation.