IT:U Doctoral School PhD Program COMPUTATIONAL X
3 PhD positions | 30h/week | Up to 4 years | On-site in Linz (AT) | Start Date: October 2026 | Principal Investigator: Professor Beatrix Hiesmayr
Field of Research & Scope
Next-generation quantum computers must handle tens to hundreds of qubits/qudits, pushing into regimes where current methods for certifying multipartite, high-dimensional quantum resources no longer scale. Key challenges include the lack of scalable benchmarks and theoretical figures of merit that remain well-behaved in large, high-dimensional systems, the difficulty of maintaining stable calibrations during extensive data acquisition, and the need to harness these systems for practical applications such as quantum key distribution and human imaging with high‑energy photons.
We are an interdisciplinary team (see Quantum Information and Quantum Technologies | IT:U ) spanning experimental quantum physics, theoretical quantum physics, medical applications, and computing. We seek highly motivated PhD students who will pursue a defined project while contributing to the group’s shared goals. Available projects include:
1.) Theoretical quantum information: develop and analyze theoretical quantities characterizing quantum properties (e.g., entanglement), with an emphasis on experimental implementability and validation.
2.) High‑energy photons for applications: extract information from existing and dedicated experiments and explore how these insights can be leveraged for medical applications.
3.) Orbital angular momentum (OAM) entangled multipartite photons: conduct experimental research involving OAM‑entangled states, including hands‑on laboratory work.
We offer
– Collaborations: Expected are collaborations with all group members. In addition, our group enjoys close collaborations with other IT:U groups and is connected worldwide.
– International mobility and exchange: Selected candidates will benefit from interactions with the PI’s collaborators and colleagues in Europe, North America and Asia, who are happy to host PhD students for short stays.
– Professional and personal development: With the PI’s experience navigating academia in different countries, doctoral students will receive comprehensive guidance throughout their academic journey at IT:U and beyond.
Responsibilities & Tasks
– Conduct research
– Write and publish scientific papers
– Attend national and international conferences
– Collaborate with other research groups on an interdisciplinary basis
– Contribute to academic teaching (up to 2 weekly credit hours)
– Support the research group in preparing applications for third-party funding
– Comply with the institution’s academic standards and ethical guidelines
Skills & Qualifications needed
– Highly motivated, with a strong interest in the intersection of mathematics, experimental and theoretical quantum physics and computing
– Highly motivated in developing and conducting teaching and outreach projects
– A degree equivalent to a master's degree in physics, mathematics, computer science, or other relevant fields
– Basics in quantum physics
– Programming skills and a solid understanding of computational modeling
– The ability to work and think independently
– Team orientation and strong communication skills in English (CEFR C1 or equivalent).
What you can expect
– Innovative and stimulating working conditions in an interdisciplinary, international research environment.
– Office kitchen with complimentary basic supplies.
– Austrian “KlimaTicket OÖ” (unlimited travel on all public transportation within Upper Austria).
– We offer a gross salary in line with the FWF of EUR 2.832,10 on a 30h basis.
– Optional supplementary contracts (teaching or research) to an extent of up to 10 hours may be discussed during the hiring process.
Program Structure
IT:U offers a 4-year, structured PhD program.
In the first year, emphasis is placed on focused group work, research lab modules, and Project Integrated Courses (PICS). The first year concludes with a PhD Proposal Presentation. Over the next three years, students will develop and write their PhD theses. This is accompanied by interdisciplinary research seminars and work as a project assistant. The PhD program concludes after the 4th year with the submission and defense of the PhD thesis.
Click here to view the curriculum.
How to apply
Please fill in the online application form and upload your files at: https://apply.it-u.at/
Curriculum Vitae
– Bachelor’s and master’s diploma (or equivalent)
– Bachelor’s and master’s transcript of records
– Motivational letter (max. 2 page)
– Up to 3 contacts of professors/collaborators for recommendations
We look forward to receiving your online application.
The positions will remain open until filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply early, as review of applications will begin on a rolling basis. The call will close on 30.04.2026.
