An interdisciplinary postdoctoral fellowship position spanning
Physics, Computer Science and Life Sciences is available in the Centre for
Quantum Computing and Technology (CQCTec). The new Centre offers a vibrant
research environment for fundamental quantum science and industrial
applications relevant to societal development and welfare. The postdoctoral
position is supported by the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science.
It is related to a project on ecological networks from the estuarine and marine
environment, with the aim to numerically simulate them by means of quantum
computing.
The incumbent will be expected to conduct research on
feasibility of ecological networks, adapting existing and designing new
Variational Quantum Algorithms that can characterise their efficiency and
resilience. For this purpose she/he will work under the supervision of three
professors from Life Sciences and Physics.
Minimum Requirements:
· PhD degree in physics obtained in the last 5 years in a subject from
quantum or computational physics. If the PhD is submitted at the time of
application but not yet completed, please attach proof of submission.
· Experience in Quantum and Classical
Coding.
· Interest in applications of quantum
algorithms to ecological systems
· Teaching or mentoring experience at
undergraduate or postgraduate level
The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 28th November 2025. Applicants
are required to submit the following documents in a single PDF to Ms Nokwanda
Majola, MajolaN6@ukzn.ac.za, with the subject line “Quantum Ecology
post-doc”. For more information please contact Prof Thomas Konrad
(Physics), Konradt@ukzn.ac.za, or Prof Ursula
Scharler (Life Sciences), Scharler@ukzn.ac.za.
· A short letter of motivation, stating expertise and
experience.
· A full curriculum vitae, including a list of
publications.
· Academic transcripts
· Contact details for three referees
This post-doc
position is a UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science position.
Late
applications will not be considered and correspondence is limited to candidates
short-listed for an interview. The University reserves the right not to make
an appointment to this advertisement.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal
(UKZN) is committed to meeting the objectives of Employment Equity to improve
representativity within the Institution. Preference will be given to applicants
from designated groups under its Employment Equity Plan.
Kindly note that the
University of KwaZulu-Natal (“the University”) is required to process any
Personal Information (as defined by the Protection of Personal Act, 2013
“POPIA”) submitted by candidates when applying for positions at the University.
The University will endeavour to ensure that the appropriate security measures
are in place and implemented for both electronic and paper-based formats that
are used for processing of the personal information recorded through this
recruitment and selection process. We refer you to the University’s relevant Section 18
notice at http://vacancies.ukzn.ac.za/Libraries/General_Documents/Section_18_Notice_-_Employees_and_Potential_Employees.sflb.ashx
