Doctoral student in Quantum Machine Learning for the Life Sciences

Om jobbet

Do you want to learn how to do machine learning on a real quantum computer, with application to real problems from Life Science?

About us

The Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT) is a 12 year SEK 1 billion research effort that aims to take Sweden to the forefront of this very rapidly expanding area of technology. You will be a part of this vibrant research community and join the WACQT graduate school, building your own national network in quantum technology. Through WACQT you will also have access to state-of-the-art quantum computers.

The Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience advances the frontiers in quantum technology, nanoscience, photonics and future electronic systems - for technical and societal development. Our cross-disciplinary approach gives interesting collaborations in academy, industry and society, and is a driving force for innovations, results and breakthroughs. We offer a vibrant, international research environment and direct access to world-class nanofabrication facilities.

The Applied Quantum Physics Laboratory specializes in applying theoretical models to real-world and emerging experiments in condensed matter physics and quantum information. Our missions are to push the boundaries of solid-state physics by developing novel low-dimensional materials, exploring superconducting spintronics, and advancing quantum technologies through modelling quantum computers and developing new quantum algorithms. The division hosts a vibrant and international team of theoretical physicists, maintaining a gender balance of 40% women and 60% men, and promoting a culture of innovation and inclusivity.

About the research project

In this research project, you will develop and test novel quantum algorithms with application in Life Science. It has been shown that quantum computers can perform well on machine learning tasks, when the dataset is small. These type of datasets appear naturally in Life Science, e.g. when it comes from tests with few participants, and you will have access to a number of such datasets through a collaboration with Brigham and Women's Hospital at Harvard. You will be able to test your algorithm on state-of-the-art quantum computers through WACQT.

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, computer science, applied mathematics, computational biology, bioinformatics, or a closely related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

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

The following experience will strengthen your application (you do not need to meet all criteria to be considered):

• A background in any of the following areas: machine learning, quantum computing, or computational biology.
  We do not expect candidates to have experience in all of these fields. Curiosity and a genuine interest in learning are very welcome.
• An interest in developing new skills related to the project. We will support you as you learn new tools, methods, and concepts throughout the position.
• Programming skills or experience with software development. Experience working in collaborative coding environments can be helpful, but it is not required.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those from groups traditionally underrepresented in science and engineering. If you are unsure whether you meet all the criteria, please apply. Every application is reviewed with the whole profile in mind.

What you will do

• Take courses at an advanced level within the Graduate school of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (Graduate schools | Chalmers )
• 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
• Follow the mandatory activities in the WACQT Graduate School

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.

A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.

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 31 May.

For questions, please contact:

Göran Johansson
Full Professor
goran.l.johansson@chalmers.se

Laura García-Álvarez
Researcher
lauraga@chalmers.se

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.

URL to this page