PhD Stipend in programming semantics, verification and reliability assurance of combined classical and quantum communicating and computing systems (DE

PhD Stipend in programming semantics, verification and reliability assurance of combined classical and quantum communicating and computing systems (DEIS)

Jobbeskrivelse
At the Technical Faculty of IT and Design, Department of Computer Science, one PhD
stipend in theories for programming semantics, methods for verification and reliability assurance of combined classical and quantum communicating and computing systems as well as their timing performance is available within the general study programme Computer Science.

The stipend is open for appointment from March 1, 2026, or soon as possible thereafter.

Your work tasks and your competences
The Center for Classical Communication in the Quantum Era (CLASSIQUE) is a pioneering research initiative at Aalborg University, Denmark, and is headed by Prof. Petar Popovski. The center aims to revolutionize communication systems for the quantum age. As quantum technologies rapidly advance, CLASSIQUE focuses on a critical challenge: how to evolve classical communication networks to support both traditional data and the unique requirements of quantum information systems (https://www.classique.aau.dk). CLASSIQUE will address a suite of fresh research challenges defined by the intersection of digital applications that have real-time requirements and quantum resources that are time-constrained due to the decoherence and volatility. CLASSIQUE is organized into four research thrusts that rely upon interdisciplinary competences in: communication theory, networking, information theory, physics, mathematics, computer science, and statistics.

This PhD project falls under Research Thrust RT4 on Reliability and Trustworthiness. The objective of the PhD study is to explore and address research and design challenges that address the following (but are not limited to) challenges for quantum computing and communicating systems:

- Design and semantics of distributed quantum programming and modelling languages
- Sound and complete deduction methods for establishing properties of quantum programs
- Reduction methods and metrics for quantum systems
- Decision diagrams for efficient analysis and simulation of distributed quantum programs
- Statistical model checking for approximate analysis of distributed quantum system

Prospective applicants for this PhD proposal should have the following qualifications:
- M.Sc. degree in computer science, mathematics, electrical engineering, communications engineering or similar
- Solid computer science and analytical skills, including modelling and verification, programming language theory or quantitative model checking.
- Experience in programming, e.g., in C++, Python or Matlab. Experience with quantum simulators, such as NetSquid, is a plus.
- Familiarity with the basic concepts of quantum computing.
- Curiosity to research and develop new solutions in collaboration with senior and junior researchers within the research group and the Center CLASSIQUE;
- Readiness to collaborate with the researchers from other disciplines within the Center CLASSIQUE.

Qualification requirements
PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19, 2025 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time.

Who we are
In Computer Science, Aalborg University is known worldwide for its high academic quality and societal impact. The Department of Computer Science employs more than 170 people, of which about 53 are PhD students, and about 47% of all employees are internationals. In total, it has more than 1200 students in its BSc and MSc programs, which are based on AAU's problem-based learning model. The department leverages its unique research infrastructure and lab facilities to conduct world-leading fundamental and applied research within verification and model checking, embedded and cyber-physical systems, data intensive systems, AI, planning, networks, programming theory, and security. Applications span areas such as energy, transport, health and water. The department plays an active role in transferring inventions and results into applications in close collaboration with industrial partners worldwide. You can read more about the department at www.cs.aau.dk

How to apply
Your application must include the following:

• Application, stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Diplomas (bachelor and master's degree diploma)
• Project description: Applicants are required to submit, along with their application documents, a one-page statement, indicating their vision for research to be conducted in relation to the project topics outlined above
• Other relevant documents

The application must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University's website.

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply for the position.

Do you have any questions?
If you have any questions about the position, you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

Further information

We recommend that you save a copy of the job posting, as it will be removed once the application deadline has passed.

The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts.
Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline, the head of the department, with the assistance of the hiring committee, will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.

The successful candidate will be hosted by the DEIS Research Group that is part of the CLASSIQUE center. This group is led by Prof. Kim Guldstrand Larsen, who also heads Research Thrust 4 (RT34) within the center. A dedicated supervisory team composed of experts from the departments of electronic systems, computer science, and mathematics will be assembled to support the interdisciplinarity of the PhD project. The CLASSIQUE Center provides a world-class research environment, outstanding working and networking opportunities, and full employment benefits, including a competitive salary.

Read more about The Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design

Salary and terms of employment
The employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities (the Appointment Order) and the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities (in Danish) and protocol on certain terms of employment of academic staff at universities (in Danish).

Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement) (in Danish) and protocol on certain terms of employment of academic staff at universities (in Danish).

Aalborg University - Knowledge for the world
Aalborg University is an international workplace with more than 3,700 employees. We offer real-world-oriented education and create world-class research results through collaboration between researchers, students, and public and private companies. This is how we achieve insights, new solutions to societal problems, and knowledge that changes the world. Our main campus is in Aalborg, but we also have campuses in Esbjerg and Copenhagen.

Contacts

• Kim Guldstrand Larsen: +4599408893, [email protected]
• AAU PhD, Annemarie Davidsen: [email protected]

Ansøgningsfrist
04-01-2026

Ref. nummer
2025/809

Afdeling
Department of Computer Science