Founding Source
The position is financed within the project “Quantum Excellence Centre for Quantum-Enhanced Applications” (QEC4QEA), Grant Agreement No. 101194322, funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe / EuroHPC Joint Undertaking Research and Innovation Action programme. Funded by the European Union.
About us
The Center for Theoretical Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences (CTP PAS) is a research institute focused on the study of theoretical physics. The CTP is located in Warsaw, Poland, and was founded in 1980.
The CTP PAS conducts research in various fields of physics, including quantum information, space and gravity research, semiconductors, and atomic gases. The Institute's strategy is to employ the strongest scientists, giving them the freedom to conduct their research. This has resulted in the CTP's high standing in Poland, world-class publications (in Nature and Science), a large number of grants (approximately 30 projects), and participation in international consortia. In terms of citations per researcher, CTP PAS ranks among the leading institutions in Polish physics.
The CTP PAS also hosts a number of scientific events, including seminars, workshops, and conferences, which are open to the public. The Institute also creates educational content accessible on its official YouTube channel.
About the role
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher (f/m/x), who will join the research group at the CTP PAS, led by Prof. Michał Oszmaniec.
The successful candidate should hold a PhD in physics, mathematics, computer science, quantum information, or a closely related field, and have a strong background in theoretical quantum computing and quantum information science. The position is suited to a researcher able to combine analytical work with computational implementation, and to contribute to the development of methods for near-term and future quantum computing platforms.
Relevant expertise may include quantum algorithms, variational and hybrid quantum–classical methods, quantum simulation, quantum machine learning, quantum chemistry applications, measurement and tomography protocols, error mitigation, benchmarking, or classical simulation of quantum systems. Experience with probability, mathematical physics, many-body systems, quantum optics, or high-dimensional methods will be considered an advantage, as will practical programming skills in Python, Julia, C++, Mathematica, or quantum software environments.
The postdoctoral researcher is expected to work independently while collaborating closely with members of the CTP PAS quantum computing group and QEC4QEA consortium partners. The role will involve developing theoretical methods, implementing and testing proof-of-principle algorithms or software, contributing to open-source or reusable research code, preparing scientific publications and project documentation, and supporting knowledge exchange within the project.
Candidates should have a solid publication record, good communication skills in English, and the ability to present results to both quantum-information specialists and interdisciplinary collaborators. We particularly value scientific creativity, reliability, openness to collaborative research, and the ability to adapt theoretical ideas to realistic constraints of near-term quantum devices and hybrid HPC–QC workflows.
Questions regarding the position or the recruitment process may be addressed to Prof. Michał Oszmaniec (oszmaniec@cft.edu.pl).
If you require reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format in order to apply for this position online, please contact recruitment@cft.edu.pl.
About you
Essential qualifications, experience and knowledge
- PhD in physics, mathematics, computer science, quantum information, or a closely related field.
- Strong background in theoretical quantum computing and quantum information science.
- Relevant expertise in at least one of the following areas: quantum algorithms, variational and hybrid quantum–classical methods, quantum simulation, quantum machine learning, quantum chemistry applications, measurement and tomography protocols, error mitigation, benchmarking, or classical simulation of quantum systems.
Essential skills and abilities
- Ability to combine analytical work with computational implementation.
- Ability to contribute to the development of methods for near-term and future quantum computing platforms.
- Very good command of English.
Desirable qualifications, experience and knowledge
- Experience with probability, mathematical physics, many-body systems, quantum optics, or high-dimensional methods.
- Practical programming skills in Python, Julia, C++, Mathematica, or quantum software environments.
What we offer
- Full-time fixed-term employment contract,
- Salary: minimum PLN 13,000 gross per month, plus the seniority allowance, if applicable. The remuneration is determined and paid in accordance with the Remuneration Regulations in force at the Institute.
- The scientifically stimulating research environment,
- Friendly and flexible work environment,
- Sharing knowledge and experience,
- Flexible working hours,
- Diverse and inclusive culture where mutual support, team work and respect are highly valued,
- Multisport card subsidy,
- Holiday subsidy,
- Nursery and kindergarten subsidy.
We will consider applications to work on a part-time and flexible basis wherever possible. We encourage you to discuss your flexible working needs during the interview process.
How to apply
Applications should be sent to: recruitment@cft.edu.pl, by 20.06.2026, with the reference number (“MO/18/2026") in the subject line.
Required documents:
- Curriculum Vitae outlining the course of studies to date and any scientific achievements (publications, participation in research projects, conference presentations), including the following clause: “I consent to the processing of my personal data for the purposes necessary to carry out the recruitment process in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data (GDPR).”
- Cover letter.
- A copy of the PhD diploma or information on the planned date of the doctoral dissertation defence. On the date of signing the contract, the candidate should hold a doctoral diploma.
- Copies of documents confirming scientific or professional achievements (optional).
- In addition, the candidate should arrange for two letters of recommendation to be sent directly by independent senior researchers to recruitment@cft.edu.pl. The letters should provide an assessment of the candidate and their scientific activity to date.
- A signed personal data protection statement (GDPR clause).
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Shortlisted candidates will receive an invitation for an interview which will be held at the Center or online.
How we recruit
We carefully review every submitted application. Those whose experience and competencies align with our needs and requirements are invited to an interview (usually held online).
We stay in touch with candidates throughout the entire process, ensuring that interviews take place in a friendly atmosphere, and providing feedback after the interviews. We approach each candidate individually, also considering the needs of people with disabilities.
We appreciate all feedback received after the recruitment process. It motivates us to improve our recruitment efforts.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The CTP PAS operates in an all-inclusive environment irrespective of personal, physical, or social characteristics. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognised and appreciated, and we are committed to advancing the careers of everyone.
Equality, respect, and openness are fundamental values in an academic environment, where diversity is essential. We strive to provide a safe and inclusive space for everyone who is part of our scientific community.
The CTP PAS has regulations for reporting violations of law and protection of whistleblowers.
