Postdoctoral Researcher to work on quantum algorithms and optimization

At Aalto University, science and art meet technology and economics. We build a sustainable future by achieving breakthroughs in our key areas and their intersections. At the same time, we inspire the change-makers of the future and create solutions to the world's great challenges. Our university community includes 13,000 students and over 4,500 employees, of whom 400 are professors. Our campus is located in Espoo, Otaniemi. Diversity is part of us, and we do continuous work to ensure the diversity and non-discrimination of our community. Therefore, we encourage qualified applicants from any background to join our community.

The Department of Electronics and Nanotechnology at Aalto University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on quantum algorithms and optimization with life sciences as the application area.

The position is intended for a researcher who has completed their PhD at most two years ago. The contract is for two years, which can be extended by one year.

Are you as excited about quantum computing and its future applications as we are?

We are now looking for a postdoc researcher for the Micro and Quantum Systems (MQS) research group at Aalto University's School of Electrical Engineering to conduct research related to the theory and practical implementation of quantum algorithms. The group currently has over 19 members, and we are expanding further.

In this role, you will work at the intersection of quantum computing, computational biology, genomics, and materials science. You will get to delve deeply into quantum computing and participate in high-level research that has practical significance. Come and help build the future!

Your role: As a Postdoctoral Researcher, your primary task is to research quantum algorithms and quantum information. You are expected to take an active role in advancing the research projects of the MQS group.

Our recent work has focused on the theory and applications of quantum walk algorithms, variational quantum algorithms and their optimization, adiabatic quantum computing, and quantum machine learning. Theoretical and applied research on quantum computing and quantum advantages is a central focus in four application areas: bioinformatics, plant breeding, biomaterials synthesis, and the design of cellulose processing enzymes. In each of these, the underlying challenges are difficult computational problems, such as combinatorial optimization, sampling, and molecular simulation. Subject matter expertise is provided by research partners working in life sciences and materials science, so previous experience in life sciences is not required.

You will develop hybrid quantum-classical algorithms to solve domain-specific, computationally demanding problems. The methods are designed for short-term (NISQ-era) deployment, and the expressivity, training stability, scalability, and resource requirements of the models are evaluated based on representative problem sizes and systematically compared to classical methods. Simultaneously, medium- and long-term quantum algorithms are studied to assess quantum readiness and to develop innovative methods relevant to each application area. Specific research topics can be tailored according to your interests within our ongoing projects.

Your goal is to produce world-class research results in collaboration with other MQS group members and publish them in high-impact journals.

In addition to research, you are also expected to participate in the supervision of doctoral students and the research group's teaching activities. Your team: Currently, our research group includes 1 professor, 1 lecturer, 1 staff scientist, 1 research fellow, 2 postdoc researchers, and 7 doctoral students. The group is led by Professor Ilkka Tittonen.

What we expect from you

A PhD and excellent studies in theoretical physics, mathematics, computer science, or another relevant field. The degree must have been completed within the last two years before the application deadline.

Sufficient background in quantum computing to conduct research on the topic.

Programming skills (e.g., Python) as well as experience with numerical simulations or quantum software frameworks (e.g., Qiskit and PennyLane).

Demonstrated ability for independent research and collaboration on challenging topics.

Sufficient English language skills. (Finnish language is not required.)

Research topics can be adapted to the applicant's background. Familiarity with one or more of the aforementioned application areas (e.g., bioinformatics, computational biology, or materials science) is a clear advantage but not a requirement. We also welcome applicants from computational biology, bioinformatics, or related fields who have strong expertise in quantum computing. Experience in teaching or supervision is also a valuable addition.

What we offer

This is a two-year fixed-term employment, which includes the possibility of a one-year extension depending on funding and progress. The postdoctoral researcher's salary is approximately €4,200/month.

We offer the applicant the opportunity to conduct research in a vibrant and active national and international community. In Finland, there are many research groups focused on quantum computing that are connected through the InstituteQ consortium. We also have access to several quantum computers, including VTT's Q50 and Helmi machines, as well as Aalto University's Q20, located directly in the basement of our office. Our funded research projects also enable the use of commercial quantum computing services in our research. Aalto University also offers abundant opportunities for multidisciplinary research and teaching cooperation.

We have a flexible, modern work culture. We value work-life balance and well-being in all aspects of life.

We offer you an interesting job in an inspiring work environment. You will get to work in a community of students, researchers, and other professionals where we promote socially significant goals in the fields of science and education. We will orient you to your tasks, and you will become part of a pleasant and competent team that will provide you with support for your work tasks in the future. We encourage and offer opportunities for continuous development of your own expertise.

We aim to combine the best aspects of remote and on-site work, and we have flexible working hours. Your on-site workplace is located in the renewed and vibrant Otaniemi campus area, which has diverse services and good transport links along the metro and major highways.

Apply to us! Apply for the position by submitting your application through our recruitment system ("Apply now!" link) no later than 30.11.2026. Applications sent by email will not be accepted. We encourage applying early, as we read applications as they arrive and may invite suitable candidates for an interview while the application period is still ongoing.

All materials must be submitted in English as PDF files, a maximum of five (5) files, each with a maximum size of 5MB. The application material must include:

CV (including a list of publications)

Motivation letter

Letters of recommendation (max. 2, if available)

If you are an Aalto employee, please apply using your own employee profile through the Workday system (internal jobs). If you are an Aalto student or visitor, please apply using your personal email address (not aalto.fi) through the external Open Jobs page.

For more information, contact Professor Ilkka Tittonen ( ilkka.tittonen@aalto.fi ), University Lecturer Matti Raasakka ( matti.raasakka@aalto.fi ), and Postdoctoral Researcher Andrea Marchesin ( andrea.marchesin@aalto.fi ). For questions regarding the application, the HR Advisor can be reached via email at ( hr-elec@aalto.fi ).