PhD Student - ZX tensor networks for disordered many-body systems (Open)

We are looking for the recruited PhD candidate to have master's level expertise in the following areas:

1. ZX calculus and other tensor networks

2. Topologically ordered phases of matter

The assignments will be carried out within a diverse and collaborative team, with extensive interaction with experimentalists in the field. To this end, we are seeking to recruit someone who demonstrates interpersonal skills and adaptability, who is a team player, and who enjoys collaborative work.

• Tensor network reasoning using analytical and numerical techniques
• Tight-binding modelling of amorphous topological matter
• Conceiving, writing and disseminating scientific publications related to the topic of amorphous topological matter
• Mentoring, and collaboration with other group members
• Participation in group meetings and the scientific life of the institute

• Contract duration: 1 year (possibility to extend up to 2 years)
• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2025/09/01

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 research will be carried out at the DIPC, benefiting from a large pool of local research and with existing international collaborations. The successful applicant will benefit and expected to contribute to the lively atmosphere of the group as well as partially mentor PhD students.

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: 2025/37
• Application deadline: 2025/07/11
• 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.

This project has received funding from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (Grant agreement No. 101042707)