PhD on Quantum Computing × AI for Optimization

You will have the opportunity to work across both ETH Zurich and IBM Research Zurich, benefiting from the synergy between academic and industrial research. The topic of the PhD position sits at the crossroads of quantum computing, machine learning, and combinatorial optimization — an area where some of the most exciting and open questions in the field live. Research directions include: Using AI to learn parameters and design circuits for quantum optimization algorithms (e.g., beyond QUBO formulations for QAOA), Developing AI-driven methods to discover quantum optimization algorithms, Generating quantum samples to warm-start classical AI solvers, or to produce quantum-enhanced features and embeddings. The core questions driving this research are fundamental and timely: How can we ensure AI-discovered quantum algorithms are not classical in disguise? How can we generate large-scale, high-quality quantum training data? And how can we combine quantum computing and AI to achieve a measurable, real-world advantage?

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

• A Masters degree in physics, mathematics, applied mathematics, computer science, quantum computing, machine learning

• Strong interest in the development of theoretical or computational methods for optimization methods, quantum computing, and machine learning

• Strong leadership skills

• Strong coding skills

• Ability to collaborate and establish positive interactions with a widely diverse group of people from different backgrounds, countries, ethnicities, genders, etc.

• Ability to work independently and in collaboration