Start your mission with DLR
The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is the national aeronautics and space research centre and the space agency of the Federal Republic of Germany. Here, 10,000 employees work together on a unique variety of topics in the fields of aeronautics, space, energy, transport, security and digitalisation. Their missions range from basic research to the development of innovative applications and products for tomorrow. Cutting-edge research requires excellent minds – particularly more females – at all levels, who fully achieve their potential in an inspiring environment. Launch your mission with us.

For our Institute of Quantum Technologies in Ulm, we are currently looking for a

Quantum physicist or similar (f/m/x)
Development and implementation of quantum algorithms

Your mission:
The DLR Institute of Quantum Technologies in Ulm aims to develop precision instruments for space applications based on quantum technologies and to bring them to prototype maturity together with industry. It thus builds a bridge between basic research and industry. Together with the Institute for Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing in Hanover and the Galileo Competence Centre in Oberpfaffenhofen, the Institute in Ulm plays a pioneering role in these fields of research and application. The research work of its four core departments Quantum Metrology, Quantum Information and Communication, Quantum Nanophysics and Quantum Control of Charged Matter Waves is complemented and supported by the three cross-sectional departments Quantum Engineering, Integration of Micro- and Nanosystems and Theoretical Quantum Physics. The institute has an interdisciplinary orientation: Theoretical basic research and experimental tests meet engineering implementation.

In the department of Theoretical Quantum Physics, we are looking for a research associate in the group "Quantum Simulations and Applications" to explore the potential of quantum computers for highly relevant and critical application problems in mobility. In the QCMobility project, you will investigate quantum computing applications for the domains of air transport, road transport, rail transport, maritime transport and intermodal transport in an interdisciplinary cooperation between industrial partners and DLR institutes. You will develop customised quantum algorithms and demonstration problems and implement them on the quantum computing hardware at the DLR Innovation Centres in Ulm and Hamburg. Take on a central role in this highly relevant project in cooperation with the project partners involved. Pave the way for new applications in the field of quantum computing and be part of the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative.

Your contribution to this project includes the following tasks:

• You will conduct research at the interface of quantum computing and mobility
• You will develop mathematical models, design quantum algorithms and implement them on quantum computing hardware
• You will be responsible for individual work packages within the project, coordinate project contributions and supervise students and doctoral candidates.
• You will organise workshops and communicate with internal and external project partners.
• You will document research results in project reports, studies and scientific publications and present them at national and international conferences and seminars.
• You transfer theoretical concepts and approaches to technological developments and contribute to the usability of the results achieved in the context of technology transfer.
• You contribute to the research activities of the other departments of the QT Institute and other DLR institutes.
• You will prepare research proposals and project applications for third-party funding.

A prerequisite for employment at DLR is security clearance in accordance with the German Security Clearance Act (SÜG) and the willingness to undergo a security clearance in accordance with §8 ff SÜG.

Your qualifications:
• completed scientific university degree (Master/Diploma Uni) in natural sciences or other courses of study relevant to the position
• in-depth research experience (at least 3 years) in the field of theoretical quantum physics, e.g. acquired through a doctorate or other proven research activities
• very good expertise in the field of quantum information
• extensive experience in the field of quantum computing
• proof of the ability to work independently and in a structured scientific manner, e.g. through a doctorate and coordination of project contributions
• proof of the ability to supervise doctoral students, e.g. by supervising students in university teaching
• sound experience in the use of mathematical and scientific application software (Matlab, Mathematica, etc.)
• methodological knowledge in project planning
• business fluent in written and spoken German and English
• ability to work in an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers
• Experience in co-operation with industrial companies and in technology transfer is desirable.

Your benefits:
Look forward to a fulfilling job with an employer who appreciates your commitment and supports your personal and professional development. Our unique infrastructure offers you a working environment in which you have unparalleled scope to develop your creative ideas and accomplish your professional objectives. Our human resources policy places great value on a healthy family and work-life-balance as well as equal opportunities for persons of all genders (f/m/x). Individuals with disabilities will be given preferential consideration in the event their qualifications are equivalent to those of other candidates.

If you have any questions concerning specific aspects of the job, please contact Dr. Matthias Zimmermann by calling +49 731 400198-118. Please find further information on this vacancy with the reference number 87618, and details regarding the remuneration and the application procedure, at www.DLR.de/dlr/jobs/#52070