University of Calgary, Quantum Horizons Alberta
Position ID:
UOC-PhysicandAstronomy-PDF [#31654]
Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Fellows
Position Type:
Postdoctoral
Position Location:
Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
Subject Areas:
Appl Deadline:
2026/02/28 23:59:59* (posted 2026/02/07, listed until 2026/08/06)
Position Description:
Position Description
ADVERTISEMENT: Postdoctoral Positions (QHA UCalgary) Applications are invited for Postdoctoral Research Fellow positions under the Quantum Horizons Alberta initiative at the University of Calgary, Dept of Physics and Astronomy. Duration: 3 years About the supervisor: The position will be hosted by Prof. Aninda Sinha, who is a QHA Senior Fellow at the University of Calgary and a Full Professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. Prof. Sinha’s research spans quantum field theory, quantum gravity/string theory, and the rapidly developing interface between fundamental physics and quantum computation, with an emphasis on building quantitative, benchmarked pipelines that connect field-theoretic questions to modern quantum algorithms and hardware. The position will leverage collaboration with his existing group at the Indian Institute of Science. Project Description A core thrust of this position is the development of quantum-computing approaches to quantum field theory (QFT), with a strong emphasis on rigorous benchmarking and validation. The successful candidate will explore state-of-the-art algorithms for simulating QFT dynamics and ground states on near-term and future quantum hardware (e.g., Hamiltonian simulation, variational methods, and error-mitigation-aware workflows), while systematically comparing results against high-precision classical baselines using matrix product states (MPS) and broader tensor-network techniques (MPS/TEBD/DMRG, PEPS where relevant). This benchmarking pipeline is essential: it quantifies accuracy, identifies the regimes where quantum advantage may first appear, and clarifies how noise, truncations, and finite-volume/finite-basis effects impact field-theoretic observables such as spectra, correlators, scattering proxies, and real-time dynamics. The field is moving rapidly, driven by parallel advances in quantum hardware, algorithms, and tensor-network numerics, and it offers a uniquely exciting opportunity to connect foundational questions in QFT with deployable quantum technologies. This direction aligns naturally with the Quantum Horizons Alberta (QHA) initiative, where the goal is to build end-to-end capability—from theory and algorithms to scalable implementation—positioning QFT simulation as a flagship scientific application for quantum computation. Required Background / Expertise Required / desired background: Applicants should have strong preparation in at least one of the following areas: (i) theoretical high-energy physics / quantum field theory (QFT), including familiarity with core concepts such as quantization, renormalization, symmetries, and field-theoretic observables; or (ii) quantum computing and quantum algorithms, with hands-on experience in quantum programming frameworks (e.g., Qiskit) and/or running workflows on IBM Quantum hardware (IBM Quantum backends) and simulators. We warmly encourage applications from QFT-trained candidates who have limited prior exposure to quantum computing but are motivated to learn quantum algorithms and engage with hardware-aware simulation; structured mentoring and a clear onboarding path into quantum-software and tensor-network toolkits will be part of the project. Conversely, applicants with a strong quantum-computing background who wish to develop expertise in fundamental questions about the universe through the lens of QFT—ranging from vacuum structure and real-time dynamics to nonperturbative phenomena—are equally encouraged to apply. Experience with numerical methods (e.g., MPS/tensor networks, Monte Carlo, exact diagonalization), scientific programming (Python/Julia/C++), and reproducible research practices is highly desirable. Eligibility • PhD in Physics (or thesis submitted / near completion) in high-energy theory or a closely related field. • Demonstrated research potential through publications and preprints. How to Apply Interested candidates should email a single PDF containing: 1. Cover letter 2. CV (including publication list and link to arXiv/INSPIRE/Google Scholar, if available) 3. Research statement (1–2 pages) 4. Names and contact information of 2–3 referees Email applications to: • aninda.sinha@ucalgary.ca and asinha@iisc.ac.in • Subject line: QHA postdoctoral application Selection process: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
And anything else requested in the position description.
Further Info: