Do you have the ambition to develop and apply quantum computing algorithms to overcome scaling limitations in chemically accurate electronic-structure computations (such as multiconfigurational post-Hartree-Fock methods)? And do you have the ambition to develop and apply techniques to tackle sizeable molecular systems using quantum computers available to us today and in the near future? Then we are looking for you.
Assistant Professor in Quantum Computing and Simulation for Quantum Chemistry and Materials
- Faculty of Science
- 14156
- PhD
- €4.537 - €6.209
- 38 hours
- Closes on14-07-2025
Do you have the ambition to develop and apply quantum computing algorithms to overcome scaling limitations in chemically accurate electronic-structure computations (such as multiconfigurational post-Hartree-Fock methods)? And do you have the ambition to develop and apply techniques to tackle sizeable molecular systems using quantum computers available to us today and in the near future? Then we are looking for you.
Assistant Professor in Quantum Computing and Simulation for Quantum Chemistry and Materials
- Faculty of Science
- 14156
- PhD
- €4.537 - €6.209
- 38 hours
- Closes on14-07-2025
Working at the UvA
Come Join Our Team!
Quantum computing and simulation for quantum chemistry and materials is a broad field of research, aimed at solving complicated quantum many-body problems underlying chemical systems and materials, such as (catalytic) reactions, molecular properties, and the interaction between light and matter. Its scope and relevance can be further enhanced in the context of multiscale modelling and simulation in which the quantum computations are coupled directly to classical representations of other parts of the system. Unfortunately, chemically accurate electronic structure computations (such as multiconfigurational post-Hartree-Fock methods) quickly become intractable. Quantum computing can in principle overcome these scaling limits but requires new algorithms and approaches to implement existing quantum chemistry methodology on quantum computers with enough logical qubits. While we have access to quantum computing devices exceeding 100 qubits, only a handful of these qubits can currently be utilized effectively. To address these challenges associated with the application of quantum computing for chemistry, fundamental quantum algorithmic research is required, built on carefully developed, written and curated software tools, and implemented in a manner that fits with best practice in software engineering and development. Importantly, the understanding of quantum computing algorithms for electronic structure calculations is also of direct benefit for the development of other chemistry applications of quantum computing that scale exponentially with complexity, such as optimization of neural network models or chemical space sampling, making a natural connection to the theme of AI for chemistry.
We are seeking an assistant professor, to be affiliated between the Chemistry and Informatics Departments of our faculty, and member of the Dutch research centre for quantum software QuSoft. You are expected to make significant scientific contributions towards quantum simulations on real operational quantum computers for quantum chemistry and materials. Furthermore, you will contribute to top-quality academic teaching in quantum simulations and chemistry.
Working at the UvA
Come Join Our Team!
Quantum computing and simulation for quantum chemistry and materials is a broad field of research, aimed at solving complicated quantum many-body problems underlying chemical systems and materials, such as (catalytic) reactions, molecular properties, and the interaction between light and matter. Its scope and relevance can be further enhanced in the context of multiscale modelling and simulation in which the quantum computations are coupled directly to classical representations of other parts of the system. Unfortunately, chemically accurate electronic structure computations (such as multiconfigurational post-Hartree-Fock methods) quickly become intractable. Quantum computing can in principle overcome these scaling limits but requires new algorithms and approaches to implement existing quantum chemistry methodology on quantum computers with enough logical qubits. While we have access to quantum computing devices exceeding 100 qubits, only a handful of these qubits can currently be utilized effectively. To address these challenges associated with the application of quantum computing for chemistry, fundamental quantum algorithmic research is required, built on carefully developed, written and curated software tools, and implemented in a manner that fits with best practice in software engineering and development. Importantly, the understanding of quantum computing algorithms for electronic structure calculations is also of direct benefit for the development of other chemistry applications of quantum computing that scale exponentially with complexity, such as optimization of neural network models or chemical space sampling, making a natural connection to the theme of AI for chemistry.
We are seeking an assistant professor, to be affiliated between the Chemistry and Informatics Departments of our faculty, and member of the Dutch research centre for quantum software QuSoft. You are expected to make significant scientific contributions towards quantum simulations on real operational quantum computers for quantum chemistry and materials. Furthermore, you will contribute to top-quality academic teaching in quantum simulations and chemistry.
All about this vacancy
This is what you will do
• Contribute to the development of impactful research in quantum computing and simulation for quantum chemistry and materials;
• Develop your own independent research line;
• Publish in high-level international journals and conferences.
• actively acquire independent funding from sources such as the national funding agency NWO and other national sources, EU funding via Horizon Europe, and/or industry, including but not limited to personal grants (such as ERC Starting Grants); (co-)Supervise postdocs, PhD students and MSc students.
Contribute to the Quantum Computing curriculum and teach two courses, preferably one on the Master level (e.g. from the Master program in Quantum Computer Science) and one on the Bachelor level (e.g. from the Bachelor Chemistry).
• Actively contribute to further development of the Amsterdam Quantum ecosystem, promote the societal relevance of your research, contribute to outreach, to services to the community (e.g. by organizing workshops) and management (e.g. as member of educational committees).
You will be selected on your scientific track record and on your vision for future research, as well as on your teaching achievements, qualifications, and vision for future teaching.
This is what we ask of you
- Hold a PhD in computational chemistry, or a closely related field, and have a background in quantum chemistry and electronic structure calculations in the field of structure and dynamics of molecular and chemical systems, e.g. in complex materials, biochemistry, solution chemistry, catalysis, photochemistry (not an exhaustive list);
- Have a proven ability to engage in cutting-edge research in Quantum Computing and Simulation for Quantum Chemistry and Materials, as evidenced by a track record of publications in renowned journals together with contributed and/or invited talks at international conferences/workshops;
- Have a good track record in teaching and (co)supervision of BSc, MSc and/or PhD students, appropriate to your career stage;
- Have demonstrable organizational talent;
- Are a team player with good communication skills in English.
Furthermore you are willing to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (Dutch: BKO) within three years and you are able to speak the Dutch language or motivated to speak it within five years.
This is what else we offer you
We offer you a temporary contract for the duration of 18 months. A permanent contract follows after a positive assesment of your performace.
The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between €4.537 to €6.209 (scale 11). These salaries do not include the 8% holiday allowance and the 8,3% year-end allowance the UvA offers. The UFO profile Assistant Professor 2 is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable. The job offer will be according to your previous experience.
Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:
• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• Multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• Multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• Partly paid parental leave;
• The possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• A pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution.
Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.
All about this vacancy
This is what you will do
• Contribute to the development of impactful research in quantum computing and simulation for quantum chemistry and materials;
• Develop your own independent research line;
• Publish in high-level international journals and conferences.
• actively acquire independent funding from sources such as the national funding agency NWO and other national sources, EU funding via Horizon Europe, and/or industry, including but not limited to personal grants (such as ERC Starting Grants); (co-)Supervise postdocs, PhD students and MSc students.
Contribute to the Quantum Computing curriculum and teach two courses, preferably one on the Master level (e.g. from the Master program in Quantum Computer Science) and one on the Bachelor level (e.g. from the Bachelor Chemistry).
• Actively contribute to further development of the Amsterdam Quantum ecosystem, promote the societal relevance of your research, contribute to outreach, to services to the community (e.g. by organizing workshops) and management (e.g. as member of educational committees).
You will be selected on your scientific track record and on your vision for future research, as well as on your teaching achievements, qualifications, and vision for future teaching.
This is what we ask of you
- Hold a PhD in computational chemistry, or a closely related field, and have a background in quantum chemistry and electronic structure calculations in the field of structure and dynamics of molecular and chemical systems, e.g. in complex materials, biochemistry, solution chemistry, catalysis, photochemistry (not an exhaustive list);
- Have a proven ability to engage in cutting-edge research in Quantum Computing and Simulation for Quantum Chemistry and Materials, as evidenced by a track record of publications in renowned journals together with contributed and/or invited talks at international conferences/workshops;
- Have a good track record in teaching and (co)supervision of BSc, MSc and/or PhD students, appropriate to your career stage;
- Have demonstrable organizational talent;
- Are a team player with good communication skills in English.
Furthermore you are willing to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (Dutch: BKO) within three years and you are able to speak the Dutch language or motivated to speak it within five years.
This is what else we offer you
We offer you a temporary contract for the duration of 18 months. A permanent contract follows after a positive assesment of your performace.
The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between €4.537 to €6.209 (scale 11). These salaries do not include the 8% holiday allowance and the 8,3% year-end allowance the UvA offers. The UFO profile Assistant Professor 2 is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable. The job offer will be according to your previous experience.
Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:
• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• Multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• Multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• Partly paid parental leave;
• The possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• A pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution.
Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.
Your place at the UvA
This is where you will work
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 42,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.
The Faculty of Science (FNWI) has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.
QuSoft is the Dutch centre for quantum software, a collaboration between CWI and the University of Amsterdam, housed by CWI. QuSoft maintains a vibrant and supportive quantum computing research community, consistently co-authoring approximately 10% of accepted QIP talks. We host regular international visitors, including a rotating Turing Chair; recently launched a Master program in Quantum Computer Science at the University of Amsterdam; and have regular social events, such as open stage nights, and an annual retreat. About 100 people (including approximately 40 PhD, 10 PD, 10 support staff) are involved in QuSoft. We are an interdisciplinary research centre, involving researchers from CWI and five institutes at UvA’s Faculty of Science: the Institute of Physics (IoP), the Institute of Logic, Language and Computation (ILLC), the Informatics Institute (IvI), the Korteweg-de Vries Institute for Mathematics (KdVI), the Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS).
The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.
The mission of the Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is to push the boundaries of chemistry by performing internationally recognized scientific research that is curiosity driven as well as application driven. HIMS consists of four main pillars: Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Molecular Photonics, and Synthesis & Catalysis, that together perform research in overarching topics Chemistry of Complex Systems and Materials, Chemistry for Sustainability, and Chemistry of Biomolecular Systems. HIMS strives at utilization and expansion of its knowledge and expertise by engaging in collaborative research efforts that address challenges in society and industry.
More about the UvA
The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.
Your place at the UvA
This is where you will be working
This is where you will work
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 42,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.
The Faculty of Science (FNWI) has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.
QuSoft is the Dutch centre for quantum software, a collaboration between CWI and the University of Amsterdam, housed by CWI. QuSoft maintains a vibrant and supportive quantum computing research community, consistently co-authoring approximately 10% of accepted QIP talks. We host regular international visitors, including a rotating Turing Chair; recently launched a Master program in Quantum Computer Science at the University of Amsterdam; and have regular social events, such as open stage nights, and an annual retreat. About 100 people (including approximately 40 PhD, 10 PD, 10 support staff) are involved in QuSoft. We are an interdisciplinary research centre, involving researchers from CWI and five institutes at UvA’s Faculty of Science: the Institute of Physics (IoP), the Institute of Logic, Language and Computation (ILLC), the Informatics Institute (IvI), the Korteweg-de Vries Institute for Mathematics (KdVI), the Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS).
The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.
The mission of the Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is to push the boundaries of chemistry by performing internationally recognized scientific research that is curiosity driven as well as application driven. HIMS consists of four main pillars: Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Molecular Photonics, and Synthesis & Catalysis, that together perform research in overarching topics Chemistry of Complex Systems and Materials, Chemistry for Sustainability, and Chemistry of Biomolecular Systems. HIMS strives at utilization and expansion of its knowledge and expertise by engaging in collaborative research efforts that address challenges in society and industry.
More about the UvA
The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.
Important to know
Your application & contact
Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:
- Prof. dr. Wybren Jan Buma
- Email: [email protected]
- Tel: +31 (0)20 525 6973
If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 14 July 2025.
Applications should include the following information (all files including your CV should be submitted in one single pdf file):
- a letter of motivation (1 page maximum), explaining why you would like to join the UvA;
- a curriculum vitae, including list of publications – you may also indicate absences or unusual periods that may have impacted your output, such as parental or other leave;
- open-access links to your three favourite publications, with concise motivation (max 100 words each);
- a research plan for the next few years, including ideas on acquiring funding (1-2 pages);
- a teaching statement, explaining your previous educational activities in (quantum) chemistry & (chemical) informatics, and your plans to contribute to the MSc Quantum Computer Science (0.5-1 page);
- the names and email addresses of three senior scientists from different institutes who can provide letters of recommendation – letters will only be requested from the referees of short-listed candidates.
Please make sure to provide ALL requested documents mentioned above.
You can use the CV field to upload your resume and the other requested documents, including the motivation letter, as one single pdf file.
A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure (for details: National knowledge security guidelines).
We will invite potential candidates for interviews mid August.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Important to know
Your application & contact
Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:
- Prof. dr. Wybren Jan Buma
- Email: [email protected]
- Tel: +31 (0)20 525 6973
If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 14 July 2025.
Applications should include the following information (all files including your CV should be submitted in one single pdf file):
- a letter of motivation (1 page maximum), explaining why you would like to join the UvA;
- a curriculum vitae, including list of publications – you may also indicate absences or unusual periods that may have impacted your output, such as parental or other leave;
- open-access links to your three favourite publications, with concise motivation (max 100 words each);
- a research plan for the next few years, including ideas on acquiring funding (1-2 pages);
- a teaching statement, explaining your previous educational activities in (quantum) chemistry & (chemical) informatics, and your plans to contribute to the MSc Quantum Computer Science (0.5-1 page);
- the names and email addresses of three senior scientists from different institutes who can provide letters of recommendation – letters will only be requested from the referees of short-listed candidates.
Please make sure to provide ALL requested documents mentioned above.
You can use the CV field to upload your resume and the other requested documents, including the motivation letter, as one single pdf file.
A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure (for details: National knowledge security guidelines).
We will invite potential candidates for interviews mid August.
As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
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