Simula UiB (https://simula-uib.com) is a research institute in Cryptography and Information Theory located in Bergen, Norway. The Department of Information Theory is currently looking for an outstanding candidate for a PhD researcher position focusing on quantum error correction and quantum information theory. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Hsuan-Yin Lin and Eirik Rosnes.
We invite you to engage with some of the most compelling research challenges at the frontier of quantum information theory and coding. This project aims to elucidate the fundamental limits of quantum error correction (QEC) while concurrently advancing efficient decoding algorithms for quantum error-correcting codes in the near-term, noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) era. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to contribute to both foundational research questions and the design of novel, practical quantum decoding algorithms that approach the ultimate performance limits of QEC. Although specific research topics will be defined in collaboration with the selected candidate, potential directions include investigating the efficient, low-complexity, and high-performance decoding of quantum low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes and deriving tighter bounds on the logical error rates of quantum Calderbank-Shor-Steane (CSS)/LDPC codes under the phenomenological or circuit-level noise models, with particular relevance to the practical constraints of the NISQ era. This position offers not only the opportunity to pursue and shape an independent research agenda but also the possibility to contribute meaningfully to the practical realisation of fault-tolerant quantum computing.
Simula UiB currently has 11 early-career researchers working on a range of research problems in cryptography and information theory. We can offer a vibrant, stimulating, and inclusive working environment to successful candidates. The position is for three years.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a candidate who has completed or is about to complete a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Quantum Physics, or a closely related field to work on the exciting and emerging field of quantum error correction. The successful candidate will possess a strong theoretical and practical understanding of error correction, information theory, and quantum information theory. In addition, a solid background in the mathematical methods and algorithms related to the decoding performance of error-correcting codes is an advantage. The candidate must be highly motivated and be able to demonstrate potential for conducting original research in quantum error correction and quantum information theory. We expect the candidate to have good communication skills and be fluent in English, both in writing and speaking. Finally, the successful candidate will have good interpersonal skills and be willing and able to contribute to Simula UiB’s working environment.
The Simula group appreciates diversity. We currently employ approximately 185 individuals from 41 countries and strive to create a family-friendly working environment. We are an equal-opportunity employer and especially encourage women to apply. The webpage (https://www.simula.no/about/simula-culture) provides more in-depth information about Simula culture.
Simula UiB offers:
- Excellent opportunities for conducting high-quality research as part of a highly competent and motivated team of researchers.
- An informal, inclusive, and international working environment.
- Support for travel and opportunities to build international networks.
- Modern office facilities are located at Marineholmen in the city center of Bergen.
- A competitive salary, starting salary from NOK 550 800.
- Numerous employee benefits are available, including access to a company cabin, sponsored social events, an equipment budget, and a comprehensive travel/health insurance policy.
- Relocation assistance, including complimentary Norwegian language courses.
- Healthy wellness and work-life balance arrangements.
Application
Interested candidates should apply via the link, where they should provide:
- Cover letter, outlining the motivation for applying for this position and pursuing a PhD in quantum error correction and quantum information theory, research interests, experience, and qualifications relevant to the position.
- Curriculum Vitae, summarising educational background and relevant work experience.
- Academic transcripts for the undergraduate and master’s studies, and a copy of relevant research work that the candidate may have worked on (e.g., Master thesis, academic articles). Even if you have not graduated yet, you can still apply.
- Contact information of two referees, including the Master’s degree supervisor(s).
The application deadline is 25 November 2025. Applications will be screened continuously, and we may conclude recruitment as soon as we find the right candidate. The starting date is negotiable.
Contact
For additional enquiries about this position, please contact Hsuan-Yin Lin (lin@simula.no)
For administrative enquiries about this position, please contact bergen@simula.no
About Simula and Norway
Simula UiB AS is a research institute owned by Simula Research Laboratory AS and the University of Bergen (UiB). It collaborates closely with leading universities in Norway and abroad, both in terms of research and education of master’s and PhD students. One of its goals is to increase Norway's cybersecurity expertise through research and education in cryptography and information theory.
Simula Research Laboratory AS is a publicly owned research lab that conducts Information and Communication Technology (ICT) research in the fields of scientific computing, software engineering, communication systems, machine learning and cyber security. Simula's main objective is to create knowledge about fundamental scientific challenges that are of genuine value to society. This is achieved through high-quality research, education of graduate students, industry collaboration, technology transfer, and commercialisation. Since 2001, scientific evaluations conducted by the Research Council of Norway have repeatedly placed Simula at the forefront of international research in ICT. In 2025, a new evaluation ranked Simula the highest of all Norwegian research institutions regarding impact and publication quality (p.14 in National EVALMIT rapport).
Norway is famous for its outdoor scenery, with gorgeous fjords, waterfalls and mountain ranges. Moreover, Norway is a safe and peaceful country with a thriving economy, offering a high standard of living and all the benefits of a social-democratic welfare state, such as social security and universal public healthcare.
Learn more about Norway: Official travel guide to Norway
Simula UiB uses Semac’s background check in our recruitment process. Employment for this position will be made according to the Security Act and the Act relating to Control of the Export of Strategic Goods, Services and Technology. Candidates who, by assessment of the application and any attachments, are considered to conflict with these will not qualify for this position. Candidates who may be eligible for a security clearance in Norway will be prioritised.
According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.