Postdoctoral researcher in quantum algorithms and optimization for Life Science applications

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Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We shape a sustainable future by making research breakthroughs in and across our disciplines, sparking the game changers of tomorrow and creating novel solutions to major global challenges. Our community is made up of 120 nationalities, 14 000 students, 400 professors and close to 5000 other faculty and staff working on our dynamic campus in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland. Diversity is part of who we are, and we actively work to ensure our community's diversity and inclusiveness. This is why we warmly encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to join our community. The School of Electrical Engineering is one of the six schools of Aalto University. Our portfolio covers fields from natural sciences to engineering and information sciences. In parallel with basic research, we develop ideas and technologies further into innovations and services. We are experts in systems science; we develop integrated solutions from care of the elderly to space robotics. We are now looking for a p ostdoctoral researcher in quantum algorithms and optimization for Life Science applications. Are you as excited about quantum technology and its future applications as we are? We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the Micro and Quantum Systems (MQS) research group in the Department of Electronics and Nanoengineering at Aalto University. MQS currently comprises more than 18 members and is expanding. We are advancing foundational topics in quantum computing and their practical applications. In this position, you will work at the intersection of quantum computing, computational biology, genomics, and materials science. You will have the opportunity to delve deeply into quantum computing and contribute to high-quality research with real-world impact. Join us in shaping the future! Your role and goals Your primary task as a postdoctoral researcher is to conduct research in quantum algorithms and quantum information. You are expected to take an active role in advancing the MQS group's research projects. Our recent work has focused on the theory and applications of quantum walk algorithms, variational quantum algorithms and their optimization, adiabatic quantum computation, and quantum machine learning. Theoretical and applied research into the capabilities of quantum computing and quantum advantage is a prospective topic across four application domains: bioinformatics, breeding, biomaterial synthesis, and cellulose‑processing enzyme design. You will develop hybrid quantum‑classical algorithms to tackle domain‑specific, computationally demanding problems. Methods will be designed for near‑term (NISQ‑era) deployment, with models evaluated for expressivity, training stability, scalability, and resource requirements on representative problem sizes, and systematically benchmarked against fully classical baselines. In parallel, medium‑ to long‑term quantum algorithms will be explored to assess quantum readiness and to establish innovative methodologies relevant to each application field. The exact research topics can be tailored to your interests within the scope of our current projects. Your goal is to produce world‑class research results, in collaboration with other group members in the lively environment of the MQS group, and to publish them in high‑impact journals. In addition to research, you will also be expected to take part in the supervision of PhD students and the teaching activities of the research group. Your network and team Currently, our research group consists of 1 professor, 1 lecturer, 1 staff scientist, 2 postdocs and 5 PhD students, and several undergraduate research collaborators. The group is led by Professor Ilkka Tittonen. Your experience and ambitions Applicants are expected to hold a PhD and excellent study records in theoretical physics, mathematics, computer science, or other relevant field. have sufficient background in quantum computing to conduct research on the topic. have a demonstrated ability for independent and collaborative research on advanced topics. have a working proficiency in English. (Finnish language is not required.) The research topics can be adjusted according to the background of the applicant. Familiarity with the areas outlined in this call is a clear advantage. Teaching experience will also be a valuable asset.

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