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Research Assistant - Quantum Algorithms for Molecular Systems

On-site in San Sebastián·Added today (last checked 16 Oct)

DIPC

9 open roles

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Overview

Work mode: On-site, San Sebastián
English: Required
Education: University degree

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Skills

Nice to have

Python

Requirements

What we're looking for

Candidates should have a strong background in quantum chemistry, computational chemistry, physics, or a related field, with a good understanding of quantum mechanics and electronic structure theory. Knowledge of quantum computing, strongly correlated systems, or quantum algorithms is desirable. Programming experience, particularly in Python, and an interest in scientific software development are advantageous.

Pay & benefits

What you'll get

Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
Target start date: 2026/12/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The role

Research Assistant - Quantum Algorithms for Molecular Systems (Open)

Pre-doctoral position

Position category: Research Assistant

How to apply

We are currently accepting applications for the above mentioned position. This is a unique opportunity for highly motivated students recently graduated from the University in Physics or related fields to gain research experience in one of DIPC's high-profile research teams.

What you'll do

This PhD project aims to develop novel quantum algorithms for the electronic-structure description of strongly correlated molecular systems on near-term IBM quantum hardware. The research will focus on open-shell nanographenes, graphene nanoribbons, and transition-metal complexes with challenging multireference and spin-dependent electronic structures.

The project will develop hardware-aware quantum-classical methods based on localized molecular orbitals, compact ansätze, and hybrid approaches combining variational quantum algorithms with quantum sampling techniques such as SQD and Hi-VQE. The methodologies will be implemented and optimized for IBM Quantum System Two and HPC resources, and applied to realistic strongly correlated molecular systems.

How you'll work

Reference: 2026/48

Duration: Temporary contract

Application deadline: 2026/10/21

Hiring process

For more info contact the supervisors:

David Casanova
david.casanova@dipc.org

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below.

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

Reference: 2026/48
Application deadline: 2026/10/21
Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

CV of the candidate (60%)
Adequacy of the candidate's scientific background to the project (20%)
Reference letters (10%)
Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

Last resolutions

Infrared response of matter in near-field configurations Oct 16, 2026
Chemical Engineering Oct 14, 2026
Theoretical modeling of emergent phenomena in two-dimensional quantum materials Oct 06, 2026

All resolutions +

About DIPC

The Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC) is a research center in San Sebastián, Spain, focused on frontier physics and related fields. It conducts high-level research, hosts international visiting scientists, and operates one of Spain's most powerful supercomputers. DIPC also emphasizes science communication, organizing public events like the Passion for Knowledge festival and educational programs for schools.

Industry: Physics Research
Founded: 2000
Employees: 301–500
Headquarters: San Sebastián, Spain
In Spain: San Sebastián
Website: dipc.ehu.eus

Good to know if you are moving

Located in San Sebastián, a coastal city in the Basque Country known for its high quality of life and renowned gastronomy.
The center has a strong international community, with visiting researchers from around the world and a dynamic scientific program.
DIPC offers training programs and opportunities for university and postgraduate students, including summer internships.
The working language is English, facilitating integration for international researchers.
The center is affiliated with the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), providing access to academic resources and collaborations.

In their own words

About the company & team

DIPC is a research center whose mission is to perform and catalyze cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines, as well as to convey scientific culture to society. Located in Donostia / San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain), DIPC was born from a strategic alliance of both public institutions and private companies. Since 2008 DIPC is a 'Basque Excellence Research Center' (BERC) recognized by the Basque Government's Department of Education. In 2019, DIPC was also recognized as a "Severo Ochoa" Excellence Center by the Spanish Research Agency.

This project will be performed in the Molecular Electronic Structure Group (https://molecular-electronic-structure-group.github.io/)

All open roles at DIPC