PhD in Photonic Quantum Error Correction & Simulations

Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen; Institute (NC); On-site; USD 53,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a PhD fellowship focused on fault‑tolerant photonic quantum computing with qudits and group surface codes. The project emphasizes theory, programming and numerical simulation with close ties to photonic hardware.

We seek candidates with a physics/quantum information background and strong interest in quantum error correction, architectures and software development. Start date 1 April 2027 or after agreement.

Qualifications

• Solid foundation in quantum mechanics and quantum information.
• Strong programming skills, preferably in Python, and an interest in scientific software development and numerical methods.
• Knowledge of quantum error correction, quantum computing architectures, quantum optics or topological quantum codes. Experience in one or more of these areas is an advantage.
• Experience with numerical simulations, decoding algorithms or high‑performance computing is an advantage.
• A curious mindset, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a structured approach to research.
• Good written and spoken English and strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop theoretical models and software to investigate how these codes can be implemented using photonic circuits.
• Through numerical simulations, you will study how well they protect information and what resources they require.
• Maintain a close connection to photonic hardware and align theory with experimental constraints.
• Collaborate with researchers across institutions and attend regular supervision meetings.

Skills

Quantum mechanics

Quantum information

Python programming

Numerical methods

Independent work

English communication

Education

Master’s degree equivalence

Bachelor’s degree equivalence

Tools

Python

High-performance computing

Job description

The Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a PhD fellowship focused on fault‑tolerant photonic quantum computing with qudits and group surface codes. The project emphasizes theory, programming and numerical simulation with close ties to photonic hardware.

We seek candidates with a physics/quantum information background and strong interest in quantum error correction, architectures and software development. Start date 1 April 2027 or after agreement.