In this project, we will theoretically study different approaches towards classically simulating quantum advantage demonstrations in a variety platforms. The aim is to transfer techniques from one platform (such as photonics) to another, thereby paving the way for new simulation strategies. Our understanding of the conditions for a quantum advantage currently lags behind what can be achieved in experiments. By ‘porting over’ strategies that have been developed in other contexts (such as random circuit sampling) the goal is to come to new simulation strategies, that will strengthen our understanding of where the boundary of a quantum advantage lies.Your home base will be within the Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO) chair [www.utwente.nl/aqo] in the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology at the University of Twente. The AQO group hosts a variety of research projects in photonic quantum computing, from optical building blocks to theory, providing you with a broad background in quantum photonics.

Your supervisor will be Dr. Jelmer Renema. We work closely together with our colleagues in the integrated photonics program, and with associated industries in the program. We intend to fill this position in the beginning of 2024. This project is being carried out as part of the National Growth Fund Photonics.

• PhD degree in Physics and a solid background in integrated photonics, (quantum) optics.
• You have a good team spirit and like to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment.
• You have excellent analytical skills and in innate ability for solution-oriented problem solving.
• You possess social and communication skills, in academic as well as non-academic contexts.
• You are fluent in English, both in speaking and writing.

• A full-time position for two years, and the flexibility to work (partially) from home.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 3.877,- to € 5.090,-
• There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full-time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus.
• A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).
• Excellent career support and courses for your professional and personal development.

Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO) combines adaptive methods to counteract or even exploit disorder in nanophotonic systems in combination with quantum states of light. Within AQO, we employ adaptive systems designed to compensate for fluctuations and randomness inherent in nanophotonic structures. Whether exploring natural or artificial multiple-scattering photonic media or engineered nanophotonic structures, we strive to uncover the underlying principles that govern their behaviour.

AQO stands as a beacon at the intersection of quantum optics, nanooptics, and security, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration.