Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Algorithms and Optimization for Life Science Applications, Aalto University, Finland

Summary

Aalto University is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Algorithms and Optimization for Life Science Applications within the Micro and Quantum Systems (MQS) research group at the Department of Electronics and Nanoengineering in Espoo, Finland. The successful candidate will develop hybrid quantum-classical algorithms targeting challenging computational problems in bioinformatics, plant breeding, biomaterial synthesis, and enzyme design. The post is a two-year fixed-term appointment (extendable by one year) with a monthly salary of approximately 4,200 EUR. Applicants must hold a PhD in theoretical physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field awarded no more than two years prior to the application deadline. Applications must be submitted online by 2026-11-30.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Electronics and Nanoengineering
Position Type	Postdoctoral Researcher
Discipline	Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics
Research Area	Quantum Algorithms and Optimization for Life Science Applications
Degree Required	PhD
Experience	Within two years of completing a PhD, with a solid background in quantum computing and quantum algorithms, programming skills in Python or quantum software frameworks like Qiskit, and demonstrated ability to conduct independent and collaborative research.
Salary	approximately 4,200 EUR per month
Funding	competitive monthly salary
Contract Duration	Two years, extendable by one year
Language	English
Deadline	2026-11-30
Required Documents	CV including a list of publications, Motivation letter, Up to 2 recommendation letters (if available)
Employer Address	Otaniemi, Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland
Employer Contact	Professor Ilkka Tittonen ([email protected]), University Lecturer Matti Raasakka ([email protected]), Postdoctoral Researcher Andrea Marchesin ([email protected]), or HR Advisor ([email protected])

About the Project

The researcher will work at the intersection of quantum computing, computational biology, genomics, and materials science within the Micro and Quantum Systems group. The focus is on developing hybrid quantum-classical algorithms designed for near-term (NISQ-era) deployment and exploring medium- to long-term quantum algorithms across four application domains: bioinformatics, plant breeding, biomaterial synthesis, and cellulose-processing enzyme design. Algorithms will be benchmarked against classical baselines and run on real quantum hardware access.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research in quantum algorithms and quantum information within the MQS group
• Develop hybrid quantum-classical algorithms for domain-specific computational problems
• Evaluate and systematically benchmark quantum methods against classical baselines
• Publish high-quality research results in high-impact journals
• Participate in the supervision of PhD students and research group teaching activities

Required Skills

• Solid background in quantum computing and quantum algorithms
• Programming skills (e.g., Python) and experience with numerical simulations or quantum software frameworks (e.g., Qiskit and PennyLane)
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and collaborative research
• Working proficiency in English

Who Should Apply

Early-career researchers who completed their PhD within the last two years in theoretical physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related discipline. Candidates should possess a strong background in quantum computing, quantum algorithms, programming skills (e.g., Python), and experience with numerical simulations or quantum software tools like Qiskit or PennyLane.

Benefits

• Salary of approximately 4,200 EUR per month
• Fixed-term two-year contract extendable by one year
• Access to real quantum hardware including VTT's Q50 machine and Aalto's Q20 system
• Professional development opportunities including staff training
• Hybrid working arrangements on the Otaniemi campus

About the Employer

Aalto University brings together science, art, technology, and business, hosting an international community of 120 nationalities in Espoo, Finland. The School of Electrical Engineering covers natural sciences, engineering, and information sciences, developing solutions from space robotics to elderly care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is November 30, 2026.

What degree is required for this position?

Applicants must hold a PhD in theoretical physics, mathematics, computer science, or another relevant field, awarded no more than two years before the application deadline.

What is the salary offered for this role?

The position offers a salary of approximately 4,200 EUR per month.

Is proficiency in the Finnish language required?

No, working proficiency in English is required; Finnish is not required.

Can applications be submitted via email?

No, applications submitted by email will not be accepted; they must be submitted through the official recruitment site.