Doctoral student in Optimal control of a superconducting bosonic processor

This PhD position is funded by the Swedish Research Council (VR) and offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in continuous-variable (CV) quantum computing. You will work in a strong theory–experiment environment, enabled by our close collaboration with the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT) and its experimental teams developing superconducting platforms based on bosonic modes, also called CV modes, such as microwave harmonic oscillators used to process quantum information. The project provides a rare chance to develop new theoretical and computational tools, including optimal-control techniques, that directly support ongoing experiments and advance the control of bosonic quantum operations.

About us

The position is hosted at the Applied Quantum Physics Laboratory (AQPL) at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2) at Chalmers. Here, the research covers a broad spectrum, from quantum information processing with superconducting circuits, transport phenomena in graphene and molecular nanostructures, to unconventional and topological superconductors. Our division integrates theory and experiment and works closely with groups such as the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTL) and the Department of Computer Science and Engineering.

AQPL hosts a large part of the WACQT, providing a strong scientific environment with expertise in superconducting quantum hardware, bosonic quantum systems, and state-of-the-art experimental facilities. Although this PhD position is funded by the VR, the candidate will benefit from WACQT, with access to its community, seminars, graduate-school activities, and collaboration with experimental teams working on superconducting platforms based on bosonic modes.

MC2 hosts the state-of-the-art Nanotechnology Laboratory cleanroom, the largest such facility in Northern Europe, and QTL is fully equipped with cryogenic and microwave laboratories, enabling research on advanced quantum processors. Our broader research aim is to advance the theoretical understanding and control of superconducting quantum platforms, with a particular focus on bosonic CV systems.

About the research project

Circuit quantum electrodynamics offers powerful ways to process quantum information using superconducting resonators and bosonic modes. To make these systems perform reliably, their quantum dynamics must be modeled carefully and their control pulses must be optimized. You will develop such models and optimization techniques, focusing on how bosonic quantum operations behave under realistic noise. Although the work is theoretical, it is carried out in close collaboration with ongoing experiments, and involves both analytical methods and numerical simulations.

Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:

• To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master's degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master's degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits* in physics, mathematics, computer science, or an equivalent field
• You will need strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Proficiency in programming with high-level languages like Python or C

• Strong analytical skills and an interest in theoretical and computational work

• for students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor's degree is accepted.

The following experience will strengthen your application:

• Experience in quantum computing or quantum information
• Experience modeling quantum systems, especially superconducting circuits or continuous-variable systems
• Familiarity with open quantum systems
• Experience with quantum control methods, such as pulse design or numerical optimization
• Background in data-driven or machine-learning approaches relevant to optimal control (e.g., model learning, reinforcement learning)

What you will do

• Take courses at an advanced level within the Graduate school of Microtechnology and Nanoscience
• Develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing
• The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours

Contract terms

• The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
• The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years.
• A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025).
• Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Read more about Sweden's generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.

Application procedure

The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV

Personal letter

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A brief motivation as to why you are interested in this position.

Bachelor's and, if available, master's thesis together with the transcripts.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.

We welcome your application no later than March 10th 2026

For questions, please contact:

Dr. Tahereh Abad

Permanent researcher, AQP

Email:

We look forward to your application

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.

Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.

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