QUROPE Quantum Information Processing and Communication in Europe

Location

Position for: CATEGORY 40

The project concerns a study on the present state of development of quantum technologies, and the nature and timing of expected developments, and the preparation of a proposal for the role of the Joint Research Centre in the domain, covering quantum computing, sensors based on quantum effects and all quantum technologies outside the communications field.

Background: Quantum technologies are being developed to cover a wide variety of applications, at very different levels of technical maturity. A particularly interesting area is the development of computers exploiting quantum parallelism; other areas addressed include single-photon optical communication and SQUID magnetometry. Further potential quantum applications include Josephson junction computers and new types of sensors. Quantum computers might have wide applications in simulation and modelling; they might also be able to break the cryptographic protocols currently used to secure modern communications system, including the internet. It is an open question whether it will be possible to develop new forms of cryptography to respond to this potential threat.

Tasks: The successful candidate will carry out an extensive study on the current development of quantum technologies, other than communications technologies, defining and investigating future expected developments, in terms of their content and their timing, as well as monitoring the development of "post-quantum" computing. He or she will assist JRC senior management in defining the JRC role. In the course of this study, EU policy implications will be investigated, both in terms of areas suggested for research and development work, and in any standardisation activity to be pursued, whether at EU or global level.

Qualifications:
A candidate will need a Ph.D. degree in a relevant scientific subject, and a minimum of 15 years’ professional work after graduation or 10 years after obtaining a Ph.D. Substantial experience in the analysis of quantum technologies, or in quantum technology research or development, as well as an excellent command of English, both written and spoken, are required. The following skills are also desirable:
- wide understanding of quantum technologies and their potential and weaknesses; excellent academic qualifications, including a good record of publications;
- experience in public policy-related scientific evaluation;
- understanding of the development and marketing of innovative technologies, and of their technological assessment;
- experience of standardisation work in leading- edge technological domains;
- and an awareness of the European industrial landscape in the development of quantum technologies.

Institute Unit Project: Institute for the Protection and Security of the Citizen Security Technology Assessment
Further information: http://ipsc.jrc.ec.europa.eu

Indicative duration: 24 months
Preferred starting date: ASAP
JRC Site: Ispra
Country: Italy
Rules: Grantholders: http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/jrc/downloads/jrc_grantholder_rul es.pdf

More info: http://recruitment.jrc.ec.europa.eu/?type=GH