Post-doctoral fellow in quantum foundations and algebraic methods - 18 months contract

Who we are ?

Télécom Paris, part of the IMT (Institut Mines-Télécom) and a founding member of the Institut Polytechnique de Paris, is one of France's top 6 general engineering schools.

The mainspring of Télécom Paris is to train, imagine and undertake to design digital models, technologies and solutions for a society and economy that respect people and their environment.

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher specialising in quantum foundations and algebraic methods to join the INFRES department at Télécom Paris.

The position is hosted by Quriosity, a joint Inria and Télécom Paris team within the LTCI laboratory and the Computer Science and Networks department (INFRES). Based in Palaiseau on the Saclay plateau, the team benefits from an active research environment in quantum information and quantum foundations.

The position is part of the PIQ project “New algebraic tools for causal decompositions of quantum processes”, led by Augustin Vanrietvelde. This recruitment covers phase 1 of the project, for 18 months.

The project investigates the causal decomposition conjecture: every unitary channel should admit a decomposition whose connections faithfully reflect its causal structure. The aim is to develop algebraic and syntactic tools to investigate open cases, construct decompositions or identify obstructions. The research is exploratory; partial results and limitations of the methods will be documented.

Your main responsibilities will include :

Conduct research on causal decompositions of quantum processes within phase 1 of the PIQ project.

Supervise and mentor student projects and internships.

Contribute to the scientific visibility of Télécom Paris, the Institut Mines-Télécom and the Institut Polytechnique de Paris.

You must hold a PhD or equivalent in physics, mathematics, computer science or a discipline relevant to the project, obtained no later than the date you take up the post.

You must possess a solid understanding of quantum foundations, particularly quantum causality, or advanced algebraic methods, as well as strong mathematical reasoning, proof-writing and critical analysis skills. You must be able to conduct theoretical research independently, be capable of writing rigorous scientific papers and have a command of scientific English, both written and spoken.

Knowledge of operator algebras, quantum information and diagrammatic formalisms is desirable. Experience in symbolic or numerical computation applied to theoretical problems, as well as in supervising students, would be an advantage. Finally, you must demonstrate good team spirit, the ability to engage in dialogue and synthesise ideas, as well as strong writing and teaching skills.

Why join us?
You'll be working in a fast-growing, pleasant, green and accessible environment (especially for people with disabilities) just 20 km from Paris (RER B and C suburban train lines, close to major roads). You will benefit from :

• 49 days annual leave (CA + RTT)

• flexible working hours (depending on department activity)

• telecommuting 1 to 3 days/week possible

• 75% public transport pass reimbursement

• Proximity to numerous sports facilities, concierge service, underground parking, in-house catering, etc.

• Good to know: our social security contributions are lower than in the private sector

Other information :
Application deadline: january 1, 2027
Job type : 18 months fixed-term contract
Job description here

Salary : 36 000 € brut/year

Our recruitment is based on skills, without distinction of origin, age, gender identity, or sexual orientation, and all our positions are open to individuals with disabilities.