The Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main is one of the largest universities in Germany with around 41,000 students and with about 5,800 employees. Founded in 1914 by Frankfurt citizens and since 2008 once again proud of its foundation status Goethe University possesses a high degree of autonomy, modernity and professional diversity. As a comprehensive university, the Goethe University offers a total of 16 departments on five campuses and 155 degree programs along with an outstanding research reputation. Furthermore, the Goethe University is part of the Group of Rhine-Main-Universities (RMU).

The Institute of Computer Science, Department of Computer Science and Mathematics, the Chair of Modular Supercomputing and Quantum Computing is seeking to fill a position for a

Research Associate (m/f/d)
(E 13 TV-G-U)

starting as soon as possible. The position is initially limited to a period of three years. Remuneration is based on the provisions of the collective agreement applicable to Goethe University (TV-G-U).

What We Expect
You will contribute to research and development within a project aimed at advancing scientific knowledge and publishing results in high-impact journals, while also supporting academic self-governance. You will conduct independent research, analysis, and development in the field of distributed quantum computing, with a particular focus on hardware-independent quantum algorithms. We are especially interested in the development of quantum control and communication protocols, particularly for NV-centrebased quantum systems. Research topics are expected to include aspects of distributed computing such as circuit cutting and advanced quantum algorithms. Knowledge of optimal control methods is considered an advantage. The use of quantum emulators will also form part of the work.
In addition, you will assist with teaching activities in the Bachelor's and Master's degree programs offered by the Institute of Computer Science and will be expected to publish and present your research findings at scientific conferences.

Your Responsibilities
Your responsibilities will include the design, implementation, testing, and evaluation of novel solutions on available quantum hardware, production systems operated by the Chair's collaboration partners, and, where appropriate, through simulation. You will present your research at workshops and conferences and publish your results in high-impact scientific journals.

Your Profile
Applicants should hold a scientific university degree (Master's degree or equivalent qualification) in Physics or a related discipline. You should possess foundational knowledge of quantum computing, Python programming, cloud-based computing environments, and quantum algorithms. Excellent programming skills in Python are required, ideally including experience with distributed quantum algorithms. Experience in machine learning, quantum optimal control, and the practical implementation of algorithms is highly desirable.

You should demonstrate a strong ability to work collaboratively, show initiative, and conduct independent research and development. Excellent written and spoken English skills are required, as well as flexibility and willingness to travel for professional purposes, including participation in national and international conferences and workshops.

Goethe University is committed to equal opportunity, family friendliness, and diversity. To strengthen the diversity of perspectives and lived experiences within the university, applications from individuals with a migration background and from members of other groups that have so far been underrepresented are particularly welcome. Applicants with a severe disability, or those legally equivalent, will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal suitability. If women are underrepresented in a faculty or administrative unit, they will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal qualifications.

Please send your application (including a letter of interest, CV, certificates) in electronic form (as a single PDF document) to the Research Associate of Prof. Dr. Dr. Thomas Lippert Dr. Manpreet Singh Jattana (jattana(at)em.uni-frankfurt.de) by 07.07.2026. Please note that the application documents will not be returned. Costs incurred during the application process will not be reimbursed by Goethe University.