PhD Position in Quantum Programming Languages (Sapere Aude: DFF-Research Leader Project FunQ)

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science (IMADA) at the University of Southern Denmark, Odense, invites applications for a PhD position in quantum programming languages. The position has a duration of 3 years. Due to the highly interdisciplinary nature of the position, the hired candidate will be part of both the section of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Programming Languages (ACP), the section on Topology, Algebra, Analysis and Geometry (TAAG)  and the Centre for Quantum Mathematics (QM).

The proposed starting time is Winter 2026, with some room for flexibility. The appointment will be made at a competitive salary and will follow the PhD study programme at the Faculty of Science.

This position is embedded in the Sapere Aude: DFF-Research Leader project “FunQ: Quantum Programming Beyond the Circuit Model” led by Assoc. Prof. Robin Kaarsgaard. The project aims at introducing new abstractions, models, and programming languages that radically change how we can reason about and develop quantum programs. The project will establish a collaborative team to investigate both the mathematical foundations of quantum programming languages, as well as their realisation in a novel high-level quantum programming language. The successful candidate will work directly with the project’s principal investigator, Assoc. Prof. Robin Kaarsgaard, an internationally recognised expert in the areas of quantum programming languages and categorical quantum theory.

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science is an inclusive and international working environment with state-of-the-art facilities and strong traditions for collaboration across sections, departments and faculties, and with other educational institutions, municipalities, and industries. The degrees offered by the department include BSc, MSc, and PhD degrees in computer science and mathematics, a BSc in artificial intelligence, an MSc degree in data science, and an MSc in quantum computing.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for highly motivated candidates interested in (models of) quantum computing and the theory and implementation of programming languages. The ideal candidate has an MSc degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, or a more specialised degree in quantum computing or quantum information science, and demonstrated experience in at least one of the following areas: 

• Theory of programming languages.
• Compilers and programming language implementation.
• Categorical quantum theory or other formal models of quantum computing (e.g., ZX-calculus).
• Quantum computing in general.

Fluency in English is required.

For further information, please contact Assoc. Prof. Robin Kaarsgaard at kaarsgaard@imada.sdu.dk. 

About the Department and the University

Based in Odense, the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offers an inclusive and international working environment with state-of-the-art facilities as well as a strong tradition for collaboration across departments and faculties, and with other educational institutions, municipalities, and industries. More than two thirds of faculty members come from outside of Denmark.

The University of Southern Denmark was founded in 1966 and now has more than 27,000 students, almost 20% of whom are from abroad. It has more than 3,800 employees, and 115 different study programs in the fields of the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences, and engineering. Its main campus is located in Odense, the third largest city in Denmark. Odense provides family-friendly living conditions with the perfect combination of a historic city center with an urban feel and yet a close proximity to beaches and recreational areas. Its location on the beautiful island of Funen is ideal with easy access by train or highway to the bigger cities of Aarhus and Copenhagen. As the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark’s famous fairytale author, the city is home to a vibrant and creative population that hosts numerous festivals and markets throughout the year.

Application, salary etc.

Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period.(the 5+3 programme).
Further information about the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science can be found at the homepage of the University.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background. 

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:

• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages) .
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information and date entries
• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades.
• The names and complete contact details (phone numbers and e-mail) of at least two referees details for at least 2 referees who can vouch for your skills.   

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.

Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

Applications should be sent electronically via the link "Apply now". The faculty expects applicants to read the information "How to apply for a position at SDU" before applying. Please note that the application documents should be in pdf-format and attached as three documents: motivation letter, CV and the remaining documents.

We recommend that as an international applicant you take the time to visit Work in Denmark where you will find information and facts about moving to, working and living in Denmark, as well as the International Staff Office at SDU.