International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory Careers

Postdoctoral Researcher – Theory of Quantum Computation for Quantum Many-body Physics

International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL)

Contract Duration: 30 months

Expected Starting Date: October/November 2026

Salary Range: 37K – 40K annual gross

Group/Unit: Novo Research Group

Supervisor: Leonardo Novo

Employment Type: Full time

Number of Vacancies: 1

Location: Braga, Portugal

Job Reference: Ref.27.26.443

Open Date for Applications: August 31st, 2026

Close Date for Applications: September 20th, 2026, 23h59m (Lisbon Time)

Profile

The Novo Research Group – Quantum and Linear-Optical Computation – explores several research in theoretical quantum computation, ranging from foundational questions to quantum algorithms and photonic implementations.

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to work jointly with the Rossier Research Group – Quantum Nanostructures – in theoretical topics at the interface between quantum computing and quantum many-body physics. The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to collaborate in international consortia and, in particular, play an active role in the projects QUANTUM_IberIA and EuroQCS-Spain, involving several research institutions in the Iberian Peninsula.  

Research Topics

Some possible research topics that will be worked on under this position include:

• Analog quantum algorithms for quantum search and optimisation based on quantum Hamiltonian evolution.
• Quantum algorithms for simulation of many-body physics problems in digital quantum computers.
• Hybrid quantum-classical algorithms for quantum simulation and testing on real hardware.
• Quantum-computing enhanced sensing.

Academic Qualifications

Mandatory:

• PhD in Physics, Physical Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or other related field.

Key Experience and Technical Skills:

• Research experience in quantum information and computation.
• Knowledge of applications of quantum computers to many-body physics problems (e.g., quantum simulation algorithms, hybrid quantum optimisation methods).

Other Valued Skills/Experience:

• Experience in supervising Master or PhD students.
• Good programming skills.

Personal Skills

• Excellence     
• Inclusion and Diversity     
• Sustainability and Social Responsibility    
• Accountability    
• Teamwork    
• Communication     
• Innovation     
• Growth Mindset

Our Benefits

• Tax benefits and other Diplomatic privileges[1]
• Relocation support (travel expenses included)
• Guest House on-site included for the 1st month
• Private health insurance
• 30 working days of annual leave, plus 13 official holidays
• 9 days of paid sick leave per year
• Family allowance (160€/month according to family situation)
• Child allowance (200€/month for each dependent child)
• Nursery service onsite (subject to availability)
• Support for education fees of dependent children
• Support for fitness and sport expenses
• And more.

How to Apply

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

a)     Cover letter

b)     Curriculum Vitae with References information

c)      Academic and/or Professional diplomas

d)     Up to two reference letters*

*The reference letters should be sent to [email protected] with the name of the candidate and reference of the position in the subject, for identification purposes.

Online application instructions:

1. The application is made by clicking the “Apply” button;
2. The candidate must submit the mandatory documents mentioned above in pdf format. Academic Certificates must be included in the “Additional files” section using the “Add portfolio” button.

Incomplete applications or applications providing inaccurate information will not be considered.

Additional Information

Application Feedback

It is important for INL to maintain good communications with all candidates. No matter the outcome of your application, we will always provide you with feedback.

Background Check Disclaimer

The selected candidate may be required to complete background checks as part of our R&S process. This may include criminal, educational, employment history, and other background information relevant to the employment qualifications.

Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Principle

INL follows a non-discrimination and equal access principle, wherefore all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics.

[1]About INL’s Diplomatic and Legal Status:

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) is an Intergovernmental Organisation established by its Member States, Portugal and Spain, under international law. As such, INL enjoys a privileged diplomatic and legal status, comparable to that of other international organisations.

This unique status is governed by the INL Statute and the Headquarters Agreement with the Portuguese Republic, which provide both INL and its employees with specific rights and obligations, including:

• Exemption from certain national laws and taxes, as outlined in the Headquarters Agreement, specifically in relation to work-related matters
• Eligibility for a diplomatic ID card issued by the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which serves as the only residency document required in Portugal for the duration of the employment contract
• Protocol obligations, including the duty to respect local regulations while exercising privileges with responsibility and discretion
• Non-application of national labour laws, as INL operates under its own legal framework and Staff Rules, approved by INL Council

INL’s legal framework is designed to support a diverse and international workforce, enabling the organisation to operate independently from its Member States, drive cutting-edge research, and foster international scientific cooperation.