PhD scholarship in Hybrid Quantum Chemistry on Hybrid Quantum Computers - DTU Chemistry

Within the research project Hybrid Quantum Chemistry on Hybrid Quantum Computers , funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, we have an opening for a three-year PhD position in the group of Professor Sonia Coriani at DTU Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark to work on the development of quantum chemical methods and algorithms for the prediction of molecular properties on hybrid classic-quantum architectures involving IBM’s NISQ quantum computers.

The project is at the border of quantum computing and quantum chemistry and is carried out in close collaboration with the research groups of Professor Stephan A. Sauer (University of Copenhagen) and Professor Jacob Kongsted (University of Southern Denmark).

Responsibilities

• Development of Quantum Algorithms for Quantum Chemistry calculations of molecular properties and spectra on hybrid classic-quantum architectures involving IBM’s NISQ Quantum Computers, 
• Dissemination of the results of the research in scientific articles and at conferences 
• Participation in the group meetings and activities of the “Hybrid Quantum Chemistry on Hybrid Quantum Computers” project
• Teaching-related activities at the Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, including (co)supervision of BSc and MSc student projects

Qualifications
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree, in either Chemistry (preferably with a focus on theoretical and computational chemistry), Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Quantum Information Science.

The following additional qualifications are considered as a boon:

• Solid mathematical background and experience with quantum chemistry calculations, spectroscopy, programming in Fortran and/or C/C++ and/or Python
• Experience in the development and implementation of correlated wavefunction methods of quantum chemistry, for instance Coupled Cluster or multireference methods.
• Experience on the development of quantum computing algorithms for NISQ quantum computers
• Experience with quantum computing software libraries like IBM’s Qiskit or Pennylane

Equally important, you are highly motivated, able to work independently and confident in both written and spoken English. You strive towards scientific excellence, are ambitious and hard working. You enjoy collaborating with others from diverse backgrounds as well as supporting more junior group members. Only applicants, who seek to be among the brightest in their field and do science at the highest international level, will be considered.

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by a panel composed by Prof. Coriani, Prof. Sauer and Prof. Kongsted.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. The position is a full-time position.

Expected start date for the position is August 15, 2023 (or as soon as possible thereafter upon mutual agreement).

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information
Enquires about the position may be made to Professor Sonia Coriani, [email protected]

You can read more about DTU Chemistry at www.kemi.dtu.dk , and about Coriani’s group at https://www.kemi.dtu.dk/english/research/physicalchemistry/femtokemi/soniacoriani/

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 7 June 2023 (Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
• List of publications (if any), including the master and bachelor theses
• List of up to three scientists with whom you have closely worked in your past research, whom we may contact for references

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Chemistry is an internationally leading institute with research and teaching in the main areas of chemistry: physical (incl. theoretical/computational), biophysical, organic and inorganic chemistry. Academic excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship are core to its research activities, and drivers of academic and industrial collaborations, spin-outs, and high impact publications. The Department has a long-standing tradition of training PhD students and Postdoc fellows who move on to successful careers within academia and industry.

The department actively contributes to both basic chemical research and applied research in energy, pharmaceuticals, catalysis and materials. Strong relationships exist with neighbouring areas such as physics, nanotechnology, biochemistry, including collaboration with industry and universities at home and abroad. Many research projects are also closely linked to applications. The institute has approx. 180 employees.

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DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.