Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Computing

The Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), in collaboration with IBM, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join an interdisciplinary project at the interface between quantum computing and nuclear physics.

This project aims to exploit noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices for the determination of nuclear energy levels, which could have a significant impact on the field of nuclear shell-model computations.

Classically, nuclear states are obtained by diagonalization of the nuclear Hamiltonian in a many-body configuration. However, the number of possible configurations and consequently the size of the matrix grows combinatorially with the number of nucleons, preventing this method from being naively scaled up to heavy nuclei. Thus, the calculation is typically restricted to one or more nuclear shells, using an effective Hamiltonian. Quantum algorithms may allow for polynomial scaling in the resources needed for this calculation, allowing for an increased precision in the determination of the energy levels.

The aim of the project is to implement the calculation of nuclear energy levels on a real quantum computer for isotopes with a large number of nucleons using quantum algorithms such as Variational Quantum Eigensolvers (VQE) and Quantum Krylov Subspace Diagonalization (QKSD).

Computations for heavy nuclei could have far-reaching implications for nuclear and particle physics. As a notable example, nuclear shell models can be used to calculate the upper limit on the effective Majorana neutrino mass, given the half-life of a hypothetical nuclear process called neutrinoless double beta decay.

Desired background and competencies

• A Ph.D. in Physics, Quantum Computing or a related discipline.
• Strong expertise in quantum computing, with hands-on experience using tools like Qiskit or equivalent platforms.
• Background in nuclear physics, particularly in nuclear shell-model computations, is highly desirable.

Working conditions

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2025/07/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The center

DIPC is a research center whose mission is to perform and catalyze cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines, as well as to convey scientific culture to society. Located in Donostia / San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain), DIPC was born from a strategic alliance of both public institutions and private companies. Since 2008 DIPC is a 'Basque Excellence Research Center' (BERC) recognized by the Basque Government's Department of Education. In 2019, DIPC was also recognized as a "Severo Ochoa" Excellence Center by the Spanish Research Agency.

About the team

The Neutrino Physics Group at DIPC is involved in the development and operation of the NEXT experiment, a neutrinoless double beta decay Xe detector installed in Canfranc, Spain. The design of its ton-scale iteration will be informed by accurate calculations of nuclear matrix elements, which will be performed in collaboration with IBM.

The group is also involved in Hyper-Kamiokande (large scale neutrino detector to be built in Japan) and in the development of next-generation neutrino detectors to be installed at the upcoming European Spallation Source (Lund, Sweden).

The construction of these instruments involves solving complex scientific, technological, and industrial challenges. The DIPC is currently consolidating a multidisciplinary team that will address these challenges and will coordinate the collaboration with relevant academic and industrial players.