Research Scientist Group Leader in Quantum Information and Computation

Job Reference: Ref.74.25.443

Employer: International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL)

Location: Braga, Portugal

Group/Unit: Quantum and linear-optical computation

Number of Vacancies: 1

Employment Type: Full time

Contract Duration: 48 months

Open Date for Applications: December 23rd, 2025

Closing Date for Applications: January 25th, 2026, 23h00m (Lisbon Time)

Key words: #quantuminformation #quantumcomputation #quantumsimulation #quantumalgo #faulttolerance #quantumphotonics #QT #theoreticalphysics #computerscience

Overview

INL is seeking an outstanding Research Scientist Group Leader to lead the Quantum and Linear-Optical group, an interdisciplinary team working at the intersection of theoretical physics, quantum information science, and computer science.

The successful candidate will drive an ambitious research agenda in quantum algorithms, quantum simulation, quantum photonics, fault-tolerant quantum computation, and the foundations of quantum mechanics, while fostering an environment where excellence, independence, and collaboration thrive. The future leader will shape the long-term scientific vision of the group, expand its research portfolio, and nurture its interdisciplinary culture.

This position offers a unique opportunity to build an internationally competitive program in theoretical quantum science, benefiting from INL’s collaborative ecosystem and targeted strategic support for ERC Starting/Consolidator Grant candidates.

Job Duties

The selected candidate will be responsible for the following activities and commitments:

• Lead and grow a vibrant, international, and interdisciplinary research group in quantum information and computation.
• Develop a long-term, forward-looking research program in areas such as quantum algorithms, quantum simulation, fault-tolerant quantum computation, error correction, quantum photonics, or quantum foundations.
• Foster a group culture that promotes research independence for Research Scientists, Postdocs, and PhD students, enabling them to develop individual scientific profiles and collaborations.
• Supervise and mentor PhD and Master students, guiding them toward research excellence.
• Secure competitive research funding from international and European programs.
• Build and maintain collaborations with leading academic groups, consortia, and industrial partners across Europe and beyond.
• Contribute to the international visibility of the group through high-impact publications, invited talks, and participation in scientific committees and major conferences.
• Strengthen the group’s interdisciplinarity by building bridges across physics, computer science, mathematics, and related fields.
• Contribute to INL’s broader Quantum Technologies Strategy through leadership, collaboration, and visionary planning.

Mandatory Qualifications

Education

• PhD in Physics, Computer Science, or a related field.

Experience and Technical Skills

• Strong postdoctoral research track in theoretical quantum information and computation (e.g., quantum algorithms, quantum simulation, fault tolerance, quantum photonics, quantum foundations).
• Interdisciplinary background combining theoretical physics and/or computer science.
• Evidence of international scientific recognition through publications, invited talks, conference committees, or leadership roles in the quantum information community.

Other Valued Skills

• Broad scientific interests and ability to operate across traditional disciplinary boundaries.
• Demonstrated experience supervising PhD and Master students.
• Proven track record of obtaining external research funding and participating in international research consortia.
• Experience leading or contributing to research lines complementary to the group’s current strengths (e.g., quantum error correction, advanced quantum algorithms), while enabling scientific synergies.
• Ability to articulate a clear research vision and to diversify the group’s portfolio into new or emerging areas.
• Commitment to fostering independence and creativity among junior and senior researchers.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with capacity to shape an inclusive and collaborative research environment.
• Engagement with multi-partner European initiatives and quantum technology networks.

Personal Skills

• Demonstrated leadership and communication skills.
• “Hands-on” approach and demonstrated ability to work to deadlines.
• Creative approach to research as well as problem-solving ability.
• Ability to work independently, as team player and as research leader.
• Demonstrated ability to network at international level.

Our Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Tax benefits and other Diplomatic privileges.
• Private health insurance.
• Family allowances (according to family situation).
• Free nursery service at INL premises (subject to availability).
• Support for education fees of dependent children.
• Relocation support.
• 30 working days of annual leave.

How to Apply

The application must be in English and include the following mandatory documents:

1. Cover letter
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Academic and/or Professional diplomas

Online application instructions:

1. The application is made online by clicking the “Apply” button;
2. The candidate must complete all required sections of the online application form;
3. The candidate must submit the mandatory documents mentioned above in pdf format by including them in the “Additional files” section using the “Add portfolio” button.

Important note:

Incomplete applications including the failure to provide mandatory documents or providing inaccurate information will result in the application not being considered.

How the Selection Process works

A. Applications eligibility check

This stage will be carried out on the basis of the mandatory requirements, education, experience and technical skills defined for the job, as well as the validation of the mandatory documents. Only candidates who meet the eligibility criteria will move forward to the next stage.

B. CV Assessment

The Selection Committee will evaluate the eligible applications based on their CV and other submitted documents and the suitability for the position. The best ranked candidates will be shortlisted for the interview stage(s).

C. Interview(s)

The interview(s) may be done in different formats: video recording, online or onsite.

The question based interview will evaluate the match between the candidate’s profile and the requirements for the position, including the technical and personal skills. To better support this stage, the candidate may be requested to prepare a short presentation.

D. Nomination

The selected candidate will be nominated and formally offered the position, including the disclosure of the contractual conditions.

Additional Information

Application feedback

We highly value your interest in becoming part of the INL experience and it is important for us to maintain good communications with all candidates. No matter the outcome of your application, we will always provide you with feedback.

Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Principle

INL follows a non-discrimination and equal access principle, wherefore no candidate can be privileged, benefited, impaired or deprived of any rights whatsoever, or be exempt of and duties based on any possible discriminatory issues.

The advertisement deadline may be extended at any time without previous notice in order to improve the suitability and effectiveness of the recruitment process.

About INL

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory – INL (http://www.inl.int), is the first and only Intergovernmental Organisation in the world entirely focused on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.

It was founded under an international legal framework to perform interdisciplinary research, deploy and communicate nanotechnology for the benefit of society. INL aims to be a recognised leading global nanotechnology innovation hub.