Position
We look for outstanding and motivated candidates with a Master related to Physics and a background in Quantum Physics to pursue a PhD at IFISC (UIB-CSIC), Spain. The 3-year PhD position, supervised by Dr. Albert Cabot, will involve theoretical research on the dynamics of open quantum systems and their applications in sensing and reservoir computing.
The project will focus on nonequilibrium phenomena, such as time-crystal phases, dissipative phase transitions, or synchronization, in systems inspired by current trapped-ion and atom–cavity setups. The aim is to uncover how these behaviors emerge, to characterize their signatures in emitted light, and to determine how continuous measurements can qualitatively alter the system’s dynamics.
The research will also explore two application areas.
Quantum metrology: studying how nonequilibrium regimes influence parameter-estimation sensitivity and developing measurement protocols based on monitoring the system’s emission. See [1] for a reference.
Machine learning: in collaboration with Profs. R. Zambrini and G. L. Giorgi, implementing reservoir-computing schemes that use these phenomena as computational resources and analyzing how to realize them in concrete physical setups. See [2] for a reference.
The successful candidate will enroll in the PhD Program in Physics of the University of the Balearic Islands, which has been awarded the Excellence Mention of ANECA.
Candidates must be resident in Spain before the start of the contract.
Expected start date: September 2026.
Application deadline: 31st of May 2026.
Interested candidates should send to Albert Cabot (albertcabot@ifisc.uib-csic.es) the following documentation:
• Motivation letter.
• CV together with a transcript of academic records.
• Master thesis.
• Contact of one or two researchers willing to provide a recommendation letter
References:
[1] A. Cabot, F. Carollo, I. Lesanovsky, Continuous sensing and parameter estimation with the boundary time crystal, Phys. Rev. Lett. 132, 050801 (2024).
[2] P. Mujal, R. Martínez‐Peña, J. Nokkala, J. García‐Beni, G. L. Giorgi, M. C. Soriano, R. Zambrini, Opportunities in quantum reservoir computing and extreme learning machines, Advanced Quantum Technologies 4, 2100027 (2021); I. Paparelle, J. Henaff, J. Garcia-Beni, E. Gillet, D. Montesinos, G. L. Giorgi, M. C. Soriano, R. Zambrini, V. Parigi, Experimental memory control in continuous-variable optical quantum reservoir computing, Nature Photonics 20, 412-420 (2026).
The IFISC
IFISC (Institute for Cross-Disciplinary Physics and Complex Systems) is a joint research institute of the University of the Balearic Islands (UIB) and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) recognized as a "Unit of Excellence" María de Maeztu Award and a member of the SOMMa alliance, which brings together the cutting-edge research centers and units in Spain.
The host institute (IFISC) provides a stimulating environment for the training of young scientists, with a program of weekly seminars, group meetings, journal clubs, conference participation, visits to leading researchers, and outreach activities.
IFISC is committed to equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Women and members of underrepresented minority groups are particularly encouraged to apply.
