Are you a highly-motivated early-career researcher with a passion for discovering novel disruptive applications for quantum computers? Are you interested in interdisciplinary research where the rigour of mathematics and computer science meets the wonders of quantum computation? If so, we invite you to join our team as a postdoctoral researcher to explore the potential of quantum computational advantage using fault-tolerant quantum algorithms.
Research area: Design and Analysis of Fault-tolerant Quantum Algorithms
Location: Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo
Duration: 2 years, with the possibility of a 1-year extension
Application deadline: December 15, 2024
About the project: Our project focuses on applicability and performance of fault-tolerant quantum computers in solving stochastic and partial differential equations, particularly those of interest in generative modelling, a major field of artificial intelligence (AI). The differential equations we study in this project arise as models of equilibrium and non-equilibrium dynamics in thermodynamical systems, but they marvellously form the foundations of recent revolutionary ideas in generative AI as well, for example, in diffusion models. Our goal is to perform complexity theoretic analysis on quantum algorithms for solving differential equations arising in project-specific generative modeling tasks. We then use these results to obtain end-to-end computational complexity bounds for training and inference from the proposed quantum generative models.
Responsibilities: As a Postdoctoral Researcher on this project, you will be at the forefront of theoretical discoveries and scientific advancements. Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:
- Conducting theoretical research at the intersection of mathematical foundations of stochastic processes, quantum algorithm design, and complexity theoretic analysis.
- Generating rigorous complexity theoretic results and developing rigorous theoretical foundations and careful proofs.
- Presenting, discussing, and documenting recurring reports on your progress.
- Collaborating with our interdisciplinary team of machine learning experts and quantum information scientists to achieve project milestones in a timely manner.
- Providing mentorship to graduate student researchers on the team.
- Analyzing and interpreting numerical data, as well as contributing to the complementary scientific activities within the broader project team.
Qualifications: To be successful in this role, you should possess the following qualifications:
- A Ph.D. degree in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field, with a strong background in theoretical analysis of quantum and classical algorithms.
- Solid background in basic quantum algorithms, such as amplitude amplification, quantum phase estimation, quantum random walks, etc.
- Familiarity with fault-tolerant quantum algorithms for Hamiltonian simulation, quantum linear/differential equation solvers, and the state-of-the-art results in this area.
- Experience in theoretical aspects of computational complexity, hardness results, query complexity analysis, methods for proving complexity theoretic lower bounds and optimality results, etc.
- Proven track record of research excellence, as evidenced by publications in reputable scientific journals and conference presentations.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
Bonus qualifications: Familiarity with any or multiple of the following areas is beneficial but not required. Nevertheless, a solid mathematical foundation, a self-driven curiosity, and a desire for learning cross-disciplinary research is highly preferred.
- Stochastic processes: basic probability theory, discrete- and continuous-time Markov chains, stochastic differential equations, Itô calculus and integration.
- Basic real analysis: Lipschitz continuity, differentiable/smooth functions, spaces of functions, Fourier basis and Fourier transformations, etc.
- Basic differential geometry: manifolds and their basic topological properties (e.g., compactness, connectedness, boundaries), differentiable maps between manifolds and their critical loci, curvature and geodesics.
- Machine learning theory: generative modelling, variational autoencoders and statistical inference, energy-based and diffusion models, optimal control and optimal transport problems.
Benefits: This position offers an excellent opportunity to work in a dynamic and supportive research environment at the forefront of quantum science and technology. You will have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources, as well as opportunities for collaboration with leading experts in the field. Postdoctoral fellows at Waterloo receive extended healthcare benefits including dental, life insurance, and sick leave, as well as one month of annual vacation time. The appointment will be for two years with the possibility of renewal. The salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.
How to apply: To apply for this position, please submit the following documents via email to Dr. Pooya Ronagh
- A cover letter expressing your interest in the position and your relevant qualifications.
- Curriculum vitae (CV) detailing your educational background, research experience, and list of publications.
- Contact information for at least two academic or professional references.
Principal Investigators: Dr. Pooya Ronagh
About the Institute for Quantum Computing: The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is a world-leading quantum institute at the University of Waterloo. IQC attracts world-class researchers, postdoctoral fellows and students in science, mathematics and engineering to Canada. We train the quantum workforce and support industry through shared-infrastructure and expertise. We are home to 29 faculty members and a community of over 300 researchers who work collaboratively to tackle some of the most challenging problems the world is facing today. IQC’s ongoing partnerships span the globe, encompassing collaborations with other universities, industry, and the public sector on research, training, educational outreach and device fabrication.
Join us in shaping the future of quantum technologies. Apply now and be part of a team committed to advancing scientific knowledge and driving innovation with practical applications. Our research group values the diverse and intersectional identities of the group members. We regard equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence. We seek applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism, and inclusion. As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as Indigenous peoples (e.g., First Nations, Métis, Inuit/Inuk), Black, racialized, people with disabilities, women, and/or 2SLGBTQ+. Positions are open to anyone including Canadians, permanent residents, and international scholars.