About the SnT

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) at the University of Luxembourg is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services.

We play an instrumental role in Europe by fueling innovation through research partnerships with industry, boosting R&D investments leading to economic growth, and attracting highly qualified talent. We look for researchers from diverse academic backgrounds to contribute to our projects in areas such as: Network Security, Information Assurance, Model-driven Security, Cloud Computing, Cryptography, Satellite Systems, Vehicular Networks, and ICT Services & Applications.

The "Technical Standardisation for Trustworthy and Sustainable ICT, Construction, and Aerospace" research programme represents a strategic collaboration between Luxembourg Institute of Standardisation, Accreditation, Safety, and Quality of Products and Services (ILNAS) and SnT at the University of Luxembourg. This multidisciplinary initiative is aligned with Luxembourg's National Technical Standardisation Strategy 2024-2030 and emphasizes sustainability across various growth sectors for Luxembourg's economy. The programme includes cutting-edge research activities and promotes active contributions to international standardisation efforts. As a part of this collaborative research programme, you will join as one of three PhD candidates working on interconnected projects in Quantum Optimisation, People-Centred Design (PCD) for Sustainable Construction, and Sustainable Space. Each position addresses specific sustainability challenges through research and active contributions to standardisation efforts.

Your role

This fully funded PhD position focuses on exploring and developing hybrid quantum-classical algorithms to tackle sustainability challenges. Key areas include resource optimisation, energy management, and circular economy practices. Your research will involve:

Designing hybrid quantum-classical optimisation algorithms
Designing efficient quantum algorithms for sustainability challenges, such as energy optimisation and sustainable transport, or circular economy
Establishing standardised benchmarks and performance metrics for quantum optimisation techniques
Participate in relevant technical committees, consider the usage of standards, and contribute to standardisation documents
Present findings at international events

The research activities will be hosted by the Parallel Computing and Optimisation Group (PCOG) at SnT, headed by Dr. Grégoire Danoy. PCOG specializes in optimization techniques, with a focus on distributed computing and AI-driven solutions PCOG conducts research in parallel computing, search and optimisation techniques, to provide efficient, scalable and robust solutions to state-of-the-art, large-scale discrete/combinatorial problems. Detailed information about the group can be found on PCOG website.

For further information, please contact

Your profile

The candidate should possess an MSc degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or any related engineering discipline
The ideal candidate should have some knowledge and/or experience in several of the following topics:
(Quantum) Optimisation algorithms
(Quantum) Machine learning algorithms
Algorithmics
Parallel/Distributed computing
Technical standardisation
Strong analytical and programming skills (e.g., Python and C/C++) are essential
Language Skills: Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are required

We offer

Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

Full CV, including:
For each degree received or currently enrolled in, the degree, institution name, city, country, and date (or expected date) of graduation
Title and a short summary of the final thesis
List of publications (if any)
Name, affiliation, and contact details of at least two references
If available, link to GitHub repository including completed open-source projects
Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken
Cover letter with motivations and topics of particular interest to the candidate (maximum 500 words)

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Months (extendable to 48 months if required)
Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
Location: Kirchberg Campus
Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
Job Reference: UOL07203

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 40952 (full time).

University of Luxembourg

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PhD Candidate in Quantum Optimisation at University of Luxembourg