About the position
Quantum computers now have thousands of qubits, and the software that runs on them is growing more complex. Because quantum software is used in sensitive areas such as security, there is a pressing need to check that quantum programs do what they should. Features like quantum error correction mix quantum and classical computing, which today's checking tools cannot yet handle at scale.
This PhD combines classical program verification and programming language theory with methods for complex arithmetic, to produce both theory and software tools for verifying quantum programs. It is based in Uppsala University's Department of Information Technology, whose verification researchers built tools such as UPPAAL, Concuerror and Nidhugg.
What you will do
- Develop theory and techniques for verifying quantum programs at scale.
- Build software tools that put these techniques into practice.
- Spend up to 20% of your time teaching or on department work.
Who can apply
- A master's degree in computer science, mathematics or a related field, or at least 240 credits of university study including 60 at master's level with an independent project of at least 15 credits, or equivalent knowledge.
- A mathematical background, excellent problem-solving skills and an interest in programming.
- Good spoken and written English.
- An advantage: formal methods, programming language theory or semantics, logic, automata theory, automated theorem proving or quantum computing.
What is offered
- Full-time, fixed-term employment as a doctoral student, on a fixed monthly salary.
- Start on 15 January 2027, or as agreed.
- The post may involve a security check before you are hired.
How to apply
- Apply through Uppsala University's recruitment system, linked below, quoting reference UFV-PA 2026/2571.
- A statement of up to two pages covering your motivation, research interests, a short summary of your master's thesis, your earliest start date, and contact details for at least one referee (no letter needed yet).
- A CV, plus your degree certificates and transcripts with grades, officially translated into English or Swedish.
- Your master's thesis or a draft of it, and any publications or reports you wrote. Promising applicants are interviewed.