The ‘Theory of Superconducting Quantum Circuits’ research group led by Alexandre Blais specializes in quantum computing and quantum optics in circuit QED, a leading quantum computer architecture. The group is looking for highly motivated candidates. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, superconducting quantum circuits, circuit QED, quantum error correction, microwave quantum optics, variational quantum algorithms, and machine learning. The start dates are flexible. 

About the Institut quantique (Université de Sherbrooke) and A. Blais' research group - Located in Quebec, Canada, the Institut quantique (IQ) is a collaborative environment with over 200 students, postdocs and faculty members working in the fields of quantum information science, quantum engineering and quantum materials. A new IQ building with a modern and unique architecture, including numerous collaborative spaces, was inaugurated in 2022. IQ is in the heart of a human-scale campus, located in Sherbrooke, an urban area of over 225 000 people where nature is all around but with all the services of a major city. IQ is only 150 km (93 miles) away from Montreal, a vibrant city with an international airport and excellent flight connections to Europe, USA and South America. 

The Université de Sherbrooke is amongst the top three universities for quantum research in Canada. In 2020, IQ launched its IBM Q Hub – the first in Canada – which offers its members exclusive access to IBM most advanced quantum computing systems. In this context, an IBM quantum computing system will be installed near Sherbrooke.

Members of Alexandre Blais’ group have the opportunity to collaborate with academic and industrial groups worldwide, and are part of International networks such as the Quantum Science Accelerator recently funded by the US Department of Energy and CIFAR’s quantum information program. 

More information on the Institut quantique and on Alexandre Blais’ group can be found at www.usherbrooke.ca/iq/en/ and www.physique.usherbrooke.ca/blais/index.php?sec=accueil&lan=EN. 

To apply 

Applicants should be highly motivated, have demonstrated the ability to perform independent research in one or more of the above-mentioned subjects, have excellent communication skills as evidenced by publications and talks, have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively, and be interested in playing a role in the training of junior group members. Subject to the availability of research funds, the positions could be for up to 5 years, with the possibility of extensions. The start date is flexible. Please submit a cover letter, a short description of planned research and of past mentoring experience, and a CV including a list of publications. Applicants should also arrange to have two letters of references to be sent in support of their application. The deadline for applications is November 1st, 2022 but applications received after this date will be reviewed until the positions are filled.