PhD Position on Symmetries and Optimization at the Frontiers of Computation (ERC Project)

We are inviting applications for fully-funded PhD position as part of the ERC project Symmetry and Optimization at the Frontiers of Computation (SYMOPTIC).

• Are you fascinated by what can be computed efficiently and what not?
• Are you interested in finding hidden symmetries behind computational problems?
• Would you like to explore the common mathematical structure behind computational complexity and quantum entanglement?
• Or discover connections between difficult problems arising in algebra, geometry and quantum information?
• Would you like to design new optimization algorithms that exploit symmetries, to solve problems from ML to combinatorial optimization?
• Or understand if quantum computers can solve such problems faster?

If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then we hope that you will apply! (Make sure to click on the keywords in the list to learn more.)

As members of this ERC project, you will work on questions such as the above as part of a diverse international team, creatively combining ideas from different areas to make progress on central questions in the theory of computing. You will be supervised by Vladimir Lysikov and Michael Walter.

At Bochum, you can expect an excellent research environment that spans across many areas of computer science and mathematics, including the Cluster of Excellence CASA and the Max Planck Institute for Security and Privacy. In addition to exciting research projects and a friendly and stimulating work environment, we can offer a generous travel budget that allows for attending relevant conferences and summer schools to present your work to the international community, visiting collaborators, etc. The PhD program is entirely in English. You will be employed on a fully-funded position (100%, E13 salary) with an initial appointment of three years. The starting date is negotiable.

Your profile

• By default, you have a MSc degree (or are close to completing one) in computer science, mathematics, theoretical physics, or a related field. Outstanding candidates with a BSc degree will also be considered.
• You have an excellent track record in classes related to theoretical computer science and mathematics (e.g., algorithms and complexity, algebraic geometry, representation theory, optimization, quantum computing, ...).
• You are curiosity driven, enjoy combining creativity with mathematical precision, and are open to interdisciplinary collaborations.
• You are fluent in written and spoken English (no German required).

Publications (or manuscripts under submission) in related areas are a plus.

How to apply?

Please email qi@rub.de with subject "ERC PhD Position" and the following information in a single PDF file:

• Brief cover letter describing your background and research interests
• CV, including transcripts (BSc + MSc)
• Electronic contact details of 2 referees
• Any other relevant material (MSc thesis or draft, BSc thesis, GitHub link, ...)

Applications received by February 12, 2024 will receive full consideration. Late applications will be considered until all positions are filled. We strongly encourage applications from members of any underrepresented group in our research area.

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