Summary
ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to explore quantum algorithms for turbulent fluid dynamics. This project, in collaboration with IBM, focuses on implementing the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) on future quantum hardware, with applications to industrially relevant flows. The successful candidate will work at the interface of computational fluid dynamics, quantum computing, and high-performance scientific computing.
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area
- Quantum Computing
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
- Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM)
- Quantum Algorithms
- High-Performance Scientific Computing
- Turbulent Fluid Dynamics
Location
Zurich, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
- PhD in computational fluid dynamics, applied mathematics, physics, computer science, quantum computing, or a closely related field.
- Strong expertise in one or more 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.
- Experience with high-performance computing, scientific programming, and/or quantum-computing frameworks is highly relevant.
- Candidates whose expertise does not cover every aspect but have a strong foundation in a core area and are motivated to work across disciplines are encouraged to apply.
Job Description
The Postdoctoral Researcher will lead research activities on quantum approaches to fluid dynamics and contribute to defining the project’s direction. Key tasks include:
- Investigating Lattice Boltzmann algorithms suitable for quantum computer implementation, including linearisation approaches like Kolmogorov, Koopman, and Carleman methods.
- Studying quantum algorithmic approaches for solving resulting problems, such as 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 combining LBM for wall treatment with Navier–Stokes formulations for internal flows.
- Comparing LBM with alternative formulations, particularly Navier–Stokes, regarding 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.
- Potentially developing a proof-of-concept demonstration involving complex geometry and non-trivial boundary conditions based 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
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the online application portal. Please do not send applications via email or postal services.
Required documents:
- A 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).
The selection process typically involves one interview round, which may include a short presentation or discussion of previous research and project ideas.
For further information about the Computational Kinetics Group, visit their website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Ilya Karlin (ikarlin@ethz.ch), but no applications should be sent to this email.
Last Date for Apply
November 30, 2026
