PhD candidate in Exploring the Limits of Quantum Computation

We are looking for individuals with an excellent academic record interested in exploring the limits of quantum computation using automated reasoning. We are broadly interested in tackling conjectures and open problems in quantum information theory using satisfiability solvers, finding better error correction protocols using combinatorial reasoning, processing quantum information using knowledge compilation approaches, and exploring the potential of satisfiability for problems that are 'quantum' NP-hard (QMA-hard).

What you will do

• Quantum algorithms and complexity theory;
• Quantum error correction protocols;
• Quantum information theory;
• Classical representation of quantum information;
• Logic, constraint solving and satisfiability (SAT, #SAT, SMT);
• Knowledge representation and reasoning (decision diagrams, tensor networks, DNNF);
• Assist in relevant teaching activities.

Where you will work
The Leiden Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. Our people are driven by curiosity to expand fundamental knowledge and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is diverse, ranging from artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2700 staff and almost 6000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together. For more information, see http://www.science.leidenuniv.nl.

The Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) is the Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Institute of the Faculty of Science of Leiden University. We offer courses at the Bachelor and Master of Science level in the core areas of Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and Data Science, and also in the interdisciplinary areas of ICT in Business, Media Technology and Creative science, and Bioinformatics. According to an independent research visitation, we are one of the foremost computer science departments of the Netherlands. Our people and our focus on collaboration in a caring atmosphere are dear to us. We strive for excellence in a caring institute, where excellence, fun, and inclusiveness go hand in hand. We offer a clear and inviting career path to young and talented scientists with the ambition to grow. For more information about LIACS, see http://www.cs.leiden.edu.

QuSoft
The research hub QuSoft is a collaboration between the University of Amsterdam and the Dutch Centre for Mathematics and Computer Science (CWI). QuSoft’s mission is to develop new protocols, algorithms and applications that can be run on small to full-scale prototypes of a quantum computer. QuSoft has over 30 full-time faculty members dedicated to world-class research in quantum computing and quantum information. The centre is a front-runner in the development of quantum algorithms. Despite this desire for excellence, QuSoft offers a collegiate atmosphere, where knowledge and experience is freely shared in seminars or over intense games of football.

What you bring

• Master’s degree in mathematics, (theoretical) computer science or a closely related field;
• Demonstratable expertise in quantum computing;
• Good programming skills in C/C++ or Java;
• Proficient in spoken and written English;
• An independent and creative team player with good communicative skills;
• Able to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment;
• Team spirit/collaboration attitude is strongly preferred.

What we offer
You can count on an enjoyable job within the socially relevant world of education and research. The University's challenging and international work environment is located just steps away from Leiden’s lively city centre or the bustling city centre of The Hague. We also want to work with you to devote attention to your health and vitality, for example with the fun activities we organise through Healthy University.
We also offer:

• A fulltime position for initially one year, after a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities and compatibility, the appointment will be extended by a further three years.
• This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;
• A salary between €3.059,- until €3.881,- gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (38 hours) (Pay scale P);
• A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;
• Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;
• Flexible working hours: as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours; you can also save for extra leave, for example by working 40 hours a week, and in this way accrue an extra 96 leave hours, or exchange 96 leave hours for a 36-hour week.
• Lots of options when it comes to secondary employment conditions; we can, for example, discuss options for a sabbatical or paid parental leave. Within our terms of employment individual choices model, you can exchange leave days and/or salary for benefits such as an advantageous sports subscription and bicycle scheme;
• If your work allows it, hybrid working is possible within the Netherlands;
• A home-working allowance (day and internet allowance) and attention for good workplaces. The University will also provide you with a laptop.

What we find important
Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. Leiden University aims to be an inclusive community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to develop to their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High-quality education and research means inclusive education and research.

Want to apply or find out more?
If you want to apply straight away, click the application button. For more information about the job, please contact Dr. Alfons Laarman, at a.w.laarman@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.
If you want more information about the procedure, you can send an email to jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.

Applicants should submit their motivation letter and CV. Only applications received no later than 25 January 2026 can be considered. The selection procedure will take place in February 2026, and selected candidates may be invited for interview in this period.