Postdoctoral Positions in Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence

Position Description

The research group of Cunlu Zhou at the Université de Sherbrooke invites applications for multiple postdoctoral research positions in quantum computing, quantum algorithms, quantum error correction, quantum learning, and artificial intelligence.

Our research develops theoretical foundations, algorithms, and practical tools to understand and harness the power of quantum computing. We work at the intersection of quantum computing and artificial intelligence, combining rigorous theoretical approaches with computational methods and connections to quantum hardware.

We are recruiting across several research directions. The specific research agenda is flexible, and successful candidates will be encouraged to develop original ideas that advance the broader research program.

Research Directions

1. Quantum Algorithms and Quantum Error Correction

Near-term and early fault-tolerant quantum algorithms, with particular interests in open quantum systems, dissipative quantum algorithms, and algorithm co-design with quantum error correction. This direction includes collaboration with IBM Quantum.

2. Quantum Algorithms for Quantum Chemistry and Scattering

Fault-tolerant quantum algorithms for quantum chemistry and molecular scattering, with particular emphasis on ultracold scattering calculations. Co-supervised by Prof. Roman Krems at the University of British Columbia.

3. Quantum Algorithms for Finance

Quantum algorithms for computational finance, including fault-tolerant approaches to financial modeling, optimization, and related computational problems. Collaboration with Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) and Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ). Co-supervised by Prof. Anne MacKay at Université de Sherbrooke.

4. Quantum Machine Learning

Quantum generative models, quantum flow models, and the potential for quantum computational advantage in learning tasks. This direction includes collaborations with Quandela, Mila, IVADO, and the Institute of Cosmos Sciences.

5. AI for Quantum Computing

AI-driven approaches to quantum noise learning, error mitigation and correction, tensor-network methods, and quantum algorithm design and discovery. This research connects quantum computing with machine learning expertise at Mila and IVADO.

6. Hybrid CV–DV Quantum Computing

Quantum algorithms and protocols for hybrid continuous-variable (CV) and discrete-variable (DV) architectures, including quantum signal processing, noise learning, error reduction, and quantum control. Collaboration with Nord Quantique and Prof. Yuan Liu's group at North Carolina State University.

7. Quantum Learning

Developing efficient methods for learning quantum systems, including Hamiltonian learning, quantum state learning, and related problems in quantum information. Collaboration with Mila, IVADO, and Perimeter Institute.

Candidates may pursue research in one or more of these directions. We also welcome proposals for related research topics that complement the group's expertise.

Research Environment

Our group is based in the Department of Computer Science and Institut quantique (IQ) of the Université de Sherbrooke and is associated with Mila – Quebec AI Institute. IQ is a leading quantum research institute with more than 300 researchers and students working across quantum information, quantum engineering, and quantum materials; Mila is one of the world's leading AI research institutes. Together with Cunlu Zhou's IBM Quantum Research Chair and our broader collaborations, these communities offer an exceptional interdisciplinary environment for research in quantum computing and AI.

We strive to foster a welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating environment that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. We welcome English and French speakers alike and believe that diverse backgrounds and perspectives enrich our research and group culture and empower us to tackle the most challenging scientific problems together.

For more information, visit cunluzhou.com.

Qualifications

We welcome candidates with a PhD in computer science, mathematics, quantum physics, quantum chemistry, or a closely related field. Successful candidates should demonstrate strong mathematical or computational skills, a solid publication record, the ability to learn new concepts and techniques, and the independence to identify important scientific questions and develop original approaches to solving them. Given the highly interdisciplinary nature of our research, we particularly value candidates who can work across disciplinary boundaries and collaborate effectively with researchers from different backgrounds.

The ability to use modern AI tools effectively, creatively, and responsibly will be an important selection criterion. We particularly value candidates who can demonstrate how they have used these tools in meaningful and innovative ways in their research, going beyond routine question answering or standard chatbot interactions.

Appointment Conditions

• Salary: CAD $70,000–$80,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
• Duration: Initial two-year appointment, with the possibility of a third year subject to performance, funding availability, and institutional arrangements.
• Starting date: Flexible, beginning in early 2027.
• Location: Computer Science / Institut quantique, Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.

Appointments are subject to applicable university policies and procedures.

Application Procedure

Applications should be submitted through AcademicJobsOnline and include:

• Curriculum Vitae: An up-to-date academic CV, including publications and research experience.
• Research Statement: A brief statement (approximately 2–3 pages) describing your research interests, previous research contributions, and potential future research directions. Applicants should indicate which of the advertised research areas are of primary interest.
• Three Reference Letters: Submitted directly by referees through AcademicJobsOnline.

Applications received by December 13, 2026, will receive full consideration. Review will continue on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse academic backgrounds and encourage those whose experience may not align exactly with the listed research directions to apply.