Teaser Text
We are seeking individuals with a curiosity-driven research record who work at the intersection of machine learning (ML) and quantum many-body physics. We are also happy to work with experts in one of the two fields who are committed to learning the other. Moreover, we look for interest in developing interpretable, reliable, and scalable ML methods, neural quantum states, understanding the simplicity bias of overparameterized neural networks, or applying them to quantum systems, such as ultracold quantum simulators.
In this position, you will be encouraged to identify and tackle important challenges in quantum simulators, taking advantage of existing collaborations with leading experimental groups. You may join (and lead) existing collaborations aiming at scalable and practical Hamiltonian learning and detecting quantum phases of matter and their order parameters in exotic systems. You may help to explore the energy landscapes of neural quantum states or the simplicity biases of neural networks. You will be given scientific freedom to shape your own research agenda and will be supported by structured mentoring that includes career development plans tailored to your goals after the postdoctoral stage.
The preferred starting date is January 2026; however, it can be adjusted to spring 2026.The successful candidate will work with Dr. Anna Dawid and her research team.
The position is set in the exciting, friendly, and interdisciplinary environment of the aQa (Applied Quantum Algorithms) group, which is a team of faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students across the Leiden Institute for Advanced Computer Science (LIACS), the Leiden Institute of Physics (LION), the Leiden Institute for Chemistry (LIC), and the Leiden Mathematical Institute (MI) at the Leiden University.
What you will do
- Conducting rigorous research at the intersection of ML and quantum physics;
- Actively participating in regular group and one-on-one meetings;
- Co-supervising Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students;
- Presenting your research results to the scientific community at international conferences and through publications.
Where you will work
The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.
You will be part of the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS). LIACS offers the bachelor's programs in Computer Science and Data Science/Artificial Intelligence, as well as master's programs in Computer Science, ICT in Business and the Public Sector, Media Technology, and Science Based Business. According to an independent research assessment, LIACS is one of the leading computer science departments in the Netherlands. We strive for excellence in a supportive institute where academic achievement, enjoyment, and diversity go hand in hand. We offer a clear and welcoming career path for young and talented scientists with the ambition to grow. For more information about LIACS, visit our website, http://www.cs.leiden.edu
What you bring
- Ph.D. degree in physics, computer science, or a related field;
- Good publication record in ML or quantum physics. A publication record in ML applied to scientific problems is a bonus;
- Good programming skills in Python. Familiarity with PyTorch or Tensorflow is a bonus;
- High proficiency in spoken and written English;
- A team player who can communicate well also across scientific fields and teams;
- A creative, curiosity-driven scientist with an open mindset.
What we offer
We also offer:
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A full-time three-year term position for initially one year. This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;
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A salary between € 3.546,- and € 5.538,- gross per month (payscale 10), based on a full-time appointment (38 hours);
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A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;
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Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;
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Flexible working hours: as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours; you can also save for extra leave, for example by working 40 hours a week, and in this way accrue an extra 96 leave hours, or exchange 96 leave hours for a 36-hour week.
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Lots of options when it comes to secondary employment conditions; we can, for example, discuss options for a sabbatical or paid parental leave. Within our terms of employment individual choices model, you can exchange leave days and/or salary for benefits such as an advantageous sports subscription and bicycle scheme;
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If your work allows it, hybrid working is possible within the Netherlands;
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A home-working allowance (day and internet allowance) and attention for good workplaces.
What we find important
Want to apply or find out more?
- A motivation letter (1 page);
- A brief research statement (max. 3 pages) describing your research so far and your research plan for the postdoc;
- A full CV, including a list of publications and a link to your Google Scholar page;
- The names and e-mail addresses of at least two scientists who agreed to be contacted for reference letters.
If you have questions about the procedure, please send an email to jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl
If you would like more information about what the job entails, please contact Dr. Anna Dawis, email a.m.dawid@liacs.leidenuniv.nl