PhD in theoretical physics (M/F) minimization of resource costs in quantum computers

Job Description

Thesis Subject

The research focuses on theoretical studies of the physical resource costs of quantum computing, with considerations ranging from fundamental thermodynamic requirements to practical experimental demands, for future large-scale quantum computers. The role of physical resources in quantum error correction will likely be central to this research project.

Your Work Environment

ACTIVITY. The thesis will be based at the LPMMC at Grenoble Alpes University and the CNRS. The successful candidate will work with Robert Whitney (LPMMC, Grenoble) on a project in the context of the Franco-Singaporean CNRS team 'Quantum Energy Team (quantum-energy-team.cnrs.fr)'lead by Alexia Auffèves (MajuLab, Singapore) and Robert Whitney. The project is likely to include visits between France and Singapore, and the opportunity to work with other members of the French and Singaporean teams. The PhD is funded by the Q-loop project (quantique.france2030.gouv.fr/recherche-innovation/programme-lsq/), which focuses on system engineering models for large-scale quantum computers. The aim is for this thesis to develop fundamental expertise in quantum physics and computing, and then share it with other teams in the Q-loop project, so that they can integrate it into their large-scale quantum computer system engineering models.

SKILLS. Candidates must have a high-quality background in quantum information or quantum physics, and an understanding of modelling noise in quantum computers. They must be interested in theoretical research in quantum physics, while also engaging with experimentalists and engineers to understand the subtleties of building quantum computing devices. The work will be carried out in English.

CONTEXT: This PhD position will be based in Grenoble, starting between June and September 2026, and will last for three years. More information about the team: Alexia Auffèves (majulab.cnrs.fr/alexia-auffeves-personal-page/) and Robert Whitney (r.whitney.free.fr). The LPMMC (lpmmc.cnrs.fr) is a theoretical physics research laboratory with around thirty researchers and students working on a variety of topics in theoretical physics. We are core members of the Grenoble Interdisciplinary Centre for Quantum Sciences and Technologies (QuantAlps), which brings together 200 researchers working on quantum sciences and technologies. The LPMMC is a joint structure of two world-class research institutions, the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) and the University of Grenoble Alpes. MajuLab (majulab.cnrs.fr) is an international CNRS laboratory hosted by the CQT and NTU, Singapore. The laboratory comprises around 30 researchers from France and Singapore who collaborate in the field of quantum science and technology.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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