Summary
Join an interdisciplinary research project at ETH Zurich, in collaboration with IBM, exploring the future of computational fluid dynamics. This postdoctoral position focuses on investigating quantum algorithms for turbulent fluid dynamics, specifically using the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) and its potential implementation on future quantum hardware. The role offers substantial scientific independence within a supportive team environment, working at the intersection of computational fluid dynamics, quantum computing, and high-performance scientific computing.
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area
- Quantum Computing for Fluid Dynamics
- Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM)
- Quantum Algorithms (Kolmogorov, Koopman, Carleman methods, sparse Hamiltonian methods, block encoding, QLSAs)
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (Navier-Stokes)
- High-Performance Scientific Computing
- Hybrid Classical–Quantum Approaches
Location
Zurich, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications:
- A PhD in computational fluid dynamics, applied mathematics, physics, computer science, quantum computing, or a closely related field.
- Strong expertise in at least one of the following: computational fluid dynamics, quantum physics, quantum algorithms, or quantum computing.
- Experience developing and analyzing numerical or computational methods for scientific applications.
- Ability to work independently on technically challenging research questions and formulate new approaches.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, comfortable working across disciplinary boundaries.
- Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.
Highly Relevant Experience:
- High-performance computing
- Scientific programming
- Quantum-computing frameworks
Job Description
As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you will lead research activities on quantum approaches to fluid dynamics and contribute to defining the project’s direction. Your tasks will include:
- Investigating Lattice Boltzmann algorithms suitable for implementation on quantum computers, including different approaches to linearisation such as Kolmogorov, Koopman, and Carleman methods.
- Studying quantum algorithmic approaches for solving resulting problems, including sparse Hamiltonian methods, block encoding, and quantum linear systems algorithms (QLSAs).
- Developing and investigating novel linearisation, integration, and algorithmic approaches where existing methods are not well suited to LBM.
- Exploring hybrid classical–quantum approaches, including the combination of LBM for wall treatment with Navier–Stokes formulations for internal flows.
- Comparing LBM with alternative formulations, particularly Navier–Stokes, in terms of quantum resource requirements, numerical stability, scalability, and suitability for realistic applications.
- Quantifying the potential for quantum advantage in fluid-dynamics problems at high Reynolds numbers, including the influence of flow geometry.
- Developing theoretical and computational evidence for quantum advantage on a simplified but industrially relevant fluid-dynamics problem.
- Developing a proof-of-concept demonstration involving complex geometry and non-trivial boundary conditions, depending on research findings.
- Presenting research results to the ETH and IBM project teams approximately every two weeks, contributing to project planning and scientific discussions.
- Publishing findings in high-quality scientific journals and presenting them at international conferences.
How to Apply
Please submit your online application through the official portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Required Documents:
- A comprehensive CV including a list of publications.
- A brief statement describing your research experience and your motivation for this position.
- Contact details for two academic referees (or reference letters).
Selection Process:
The selection process normally consists of one interview round, which may include a short presentation or discussion of your previous research and your ideas for the project.
Contact for Questions:
Prof. Ilya Karlin (ikarlin@ethz.ch) – (Please note: no applications will be accepted via this email address.)
Last Date for Apply
November 30, 2026
Apply Link
https://www.jobs.ethz.ch/job/view/JOPG_ethz_VQeVTiLxIiHIluuSb4
