At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization.

CERN has approved in June 2020 the creation of a Quantum Technology Initiative to explore the potential applications of quantum technologies (computing, sensing, networks, and theory) to HEP research. The proposed work contributes to the implementation of the agreed objectives in the quantum computing area, establish a presence of CERN in the ongoing international quantum activities in HEP and other disciplines, and support the research objectives of the HL-LHC programme and beyond.

As a Fellow you will:

• Take part in the Quantum Computing R&D activities in CERN openlab as part of the CERN Quantum Technology Initiative;
• Contribute to the creation of a quantum computing simulation platform composed of classical hardware, specialized quantum simulators and remotely-accessed quantum hardware on which quantum version of ML/DL algorithms used in HEP can be developed and tested;
• Work with experts in openlab and the CERN experiments to identify use cases, develop algorithms, optimize simulators on different hardware and support doctoral students in the R&D projects.

Eligibility criteria

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State; 
• You have a PhD, or at least 4 years’ relevant experience since the completion of your MSc (or the equivalent diploma which gives access to doctoral programmes) in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics or in a similar relevant course, and in both cases a maximum limit of 10 years’ experience after completion of you MSc.

Essential skills and experience

• Knowledge of basic quantum computing algorithms;
• Expertise on quantum simulators.

Please note that CERN Staff members are not eligible to apply for a Fellowship.

CERN would very much like to benefit from your expertise, commitment and passion.  In return, we offer:

• An employment contract for between six months (minimum) up to a maximum of 36 months. A regular fellowship duration is 24 months.
• A stipend ranging from 7,201 to 8,178 Swiss Francs per month (net of tax).
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Depending on your individual circumstances: an installation grant, family, child and infant allowances as well as travel expenses to and from Geneva.
• 2.5 days of paid leave per month.

Your future Life @CERN

Get a glimpse of what it’s like to work at CERN: https://careers.cern/benefits and https://careers.cern/our-people

This is how you can apply:

Please provide the following documents to complete your application:

• A CV;
• A scanned PDF of your most recent relevant qualification;
• Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than a year at the time of the deadline for applications), giving an overview of your academic and/or professional achievements.
  • You can upload these letters at the time of application if you have them to hand. You will also be provided with a link as soon as you have submitted your application to forward to your referees to upload their letters confidentially. Please note this must be done before the closing date.

All applications should reach us no later than 30 March 2021 noon (12:00 CEST).