Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI), the Dutch national research institute for mathematics and computer science, is inviting applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in quantum computing. Based at the renowned QuSoft research center in Amsterdam, the successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Jonas Helsen on the prestigious ERC Starting Grant project EQUATE. The project focuses on designing innovative testing and learning algorithms to characterize errors, noise, and fault tolerance in next-generation quantum hardware.
Overview Table: PhD Fellowship at CWI Amsterdam
| Position / Designation | PhD Student (Doctoral Researcher / m/f/x) |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI) / QuSoft (NWO-I) |
| Research Project | EQUATE (ERC Starting Grant Project) |
| Research Area | Quantum Computing, Theoretical Computer Science, Physics & Mathematics |
| Location | Science Park Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Monthly Gross Salary | €3,115 (Year 1) rising to €3,989 (Year 4) plus allowances |
| Contract Duration | 4 Years (18 months initial + 30 months extension) |
| Application Deadline | 10 December 2026 |
Designation
PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher (m/f/x) within the Algorithms and Complexity group at CWI and QuSoft, supervised by Dr. Jonas Helsen.
Research Area
This doctoral research position sits squarely at the intersection of physics, computer science, and mathematics. As quantum computing architectures scale, characterizing and mitigating error and noise becomes central to realizing practical quantum computation. Key focus topics include:
- Developing and mathematically analyzing new testing and learning algorithms for quantum computers.
- Testing and learning algorithms under strict resource constraints (e.g., the “low-magic” regime).
- Characterizing Quantum Error Correction (QEC) relevant properties, such as membership in the Clifford hierarchy.
- Investigating the interplay between logical noise channels and learning procedures.
- Bridging theoretical algorithm design with practical implementations and experimental collaboration.
- Publishing research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and international conference proceedings.
Location
CWI, Science Park Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Science Park Amsterdam is one of Europe’s premier scientific hubs, housing the physical sciences faculties of the University of Amsterdam alongside national research institutes and quantum innovation ecosystems like QuSoft.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Candidates must satisfy the following academic and technical criteria:
- Academic Degree: A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a closely related discipline.
- Background Knowledge: A demonstrated interest and foundation in quantum information and quantum computing (evidenced by relevant university coursework, thesis work, projects, or research publications).
- Mathematical Aptitude: Comfort with rigorous mathematical proofs and analysis combined with an eagerness to apply theoretical insights to practical quantum frameworks.
- Language and Communication: Excellent verbal and written command of the English language, alongside strong academic writing and presentation skills.
- Motivation: High motivation, independence, and an enthusiasm for collaborative research in an international environment.
Scholarship Description & Employment Benefits
The PhD position is fully funded according to the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Research Centres (CAO-onderzoeksinstellingen):
- Contract Term: An initial fixed-term contract of 18 months, extendable by 30 months (total 48 months / 4 years) following a positive evaluation.
- Salary: Gross monthly salary begins at €3,115 in the first year, escalating annually to €3,989 in the fourth year (full-time basis).
- Annual Bonuses: An 8% annual holiday allowance and an 8.33% year-end bonus.
- Expat Support: Generous relocation and housing assistance for international researchers moving to the Netherlands.
- Work Environment: Flexible working conditions, professional development courses, paid leave, and an inclusive research culture with strong institutional support.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must compile their application documents into an electronic submission containing:
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).
- A personalized motivation letter outlining your academic interests and suitability for the EQUATE project.
- An official transcript of your MSc coursework and corresponding grades.
- A copy of your Master’s thesis (or a draft/summary if currently completing).
- A list of academic publications or preprints (if applicable).
- Contact details of at least two academic referees.
For informal inquiries or questions regarding the project scope, you may contact Dr. Jonas Helsen via email at jonas@cwi.nl.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline to submit your full application is 10 December 2026. Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis, and the position may be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified. The intended starting date is 1 March 2027 (negotiable upon request).
Apply Link
Submit your application and required documents directly via the official CWI recruitment portal:
Apply Online at CWI Vacancy Portal
