Theory-Postdoc in the Intersection of Quantum Scattering, Quantum Chemistry and Quantum Computing

We are looking for a talented postdoctoral researcher to be the driving force of a project initiated through a Villum project grant titled Quantum Hardware Architecture based on Electron Scattering in Molecules. This is a theoretical project at the intersection of quantum scattering, quantum chemistry, and quantum computing.

Short project description
The postdoc will be working on a theoretical framework for implementing quantum gates through electron scattering in molecules. The approach draws inspiration from molecular electronics, where a molecule is connected between electrodes. Here, the goal is to investigate whether such a setup can serve as a platform for building quantum gates. To delveop the theoretical framework, the postdoc will employ the Landauer formula, commonly applied in molecular electronics, and standard scattering theory.

The successful candidate is likely to have some of the following qualifications:

• Significant research experience in quantum chemistry is required.
• A thorough understanding of electronic structure theory and correlated wave function quantum chemistry is required.
• Background in quantum scattering theory, e.g., experience in molecular electronics or familiarity with the Landauer formalism and standard scattering theory, will be considered an advantage.
• Experience in quantum chemistry response theory will be considered an advantage.
• While prior experience in quantum computing is not required, it will be considered an advantage.
• Parts of the project will involve the development of Python based software, and a strong background in Python will therefore be advantageous.
• Proficiency in communication and teamwork skills, as well as excellent English skills, both written and spoken, are essential.

The project will be carried out in the group of Assistant Professor Phillip W. K. Jensen ([email protected]) at the Department of Chemistry.

The postdoc’s duties will include research within the above project as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.

Further information on the Department is linked at at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/. Inquiries about the position can be made to [email protected].

The position must preferably start on 1. April 2026. The position is for 2 years. The position is a full-time position.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment
The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Motivated letter of application (max. 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae (Include references: write the name and e-mail address of 2-3 references who may be contacted)
• Previous research statement (Preferably no more than 3 pages)
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 5. January 2026, 23:59 GMT+1.
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.
Interviews are expected to be held in February 2026.

Københavns Universitet giver sine knap 10.000 medarbejdere muligheder for at udnytte deres talent fuldt ud i et ambitiøst, uformelt miljø. Vi sikrer traditionsrige og moderne rammer om uddannelser og fri forskning på højt internationalt niveau. Vi søger svar og løsninger på fælles problemer og gør ny viden tilgængelig og nyttig for andre.

Kontakt
Phillip Wagner Kastberg Jensen
E-mail: [email protected]

Info
Ansøgningsfrist: 05-01-2026

Ansættelsesdato: 01-04-2026

Arbejdstid: Fuldtid

Afdeling/Sted: Department of Chemistry