PhD Student - Correlated topological matter in superconducting circuits (Open)

Correlated topological systems in superconducting circuits offer a powerful and highly controllable platform to explore the interplay between strong correlations, topology, and quantum coherence. By engineering networks of superconducting qubits and resonators with tailored interactions, it becomes possible to simulate topological phases beyond the non-interacting limit, including correlated topological states with no direct condensed-matter analogue. These systems also provide direct access to real-time dynamics, entanglement properties, and non-equilibrium phenomena, making them particularly relevant for both fundamental physics and quantum technologies. We therefore seek a candidate with a strong background in quantum information, including experience with qubit-based platforms, quantum simulation, or many-body entanglement, who is motivated to bridge concepts from topological quantum matter and quantum information science.

We seek a candidate with a strong background in quantum information, including experience with qubit-based platforms, quantum simulation, or many-body entanglement, who is motivated to bridge concepts from topological quantum matter and quantum information science.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/03/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The project will be led by Maia Garcia Vergniory and Roman Orús. Maia Garcia Vergniory is an expert in topological quantum materials, with extensive experience in the theory of topological phases and correlated systems. Roman Orús is an internationally recognized authority on strongly correlated systems, exact numerical methods, tensor-network approaches, and quantum computation. Together, they bring complementary expertise that uniquely positions the project at the interface of topology, correlations, and quantum information.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2026/07
• Application deadline: 2026/02/09
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (60%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (20%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

The contract is part of the CEX2024-001491-S grant, funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033