Tenure-Stream Assistant Professor for Quantum Algorithms

As the University of Pittsburgh’s newest school, the School of Computing and Information (SCI) is a growing interdisciplinary community of faculty, staff, and students who are accustomed to thinking beyond boundaries and innovating new approaches to lead our institution and nation to positive change. Since 2017, SCI has recruited more than forty-five new faculty members, and we are continuing our growth with openings in the tenure and appointment (non-tenure) streams this year.

SCI’s interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research and education spans computer science, informatics, and networked systems, and information culture and data stewardship with rich connections to partners in education, health sciences, medicine, engineering, social sciences, business, and other areas.

This tenure-stream Assistant Professor position in quantum algorithms offers opportunities for close collaboration with quantum researchers across campus departments and schools. Pitt's commitment to advancing quantum technologies is demonstrated through new hires for quantum research within SCI and across other departments within Pitt, and initiatives like the $11.6M Western Pennsylvania Quantum Information Core (https://www.pitt.edu/pittwire/features-articles/pitt-investment-pa-quantum), in which SCI plays a pivotal role. Pitt’s extensive research presence (https://pittresearchannualreport.com/), with annual expenditures exceeding $1 billion, offers abundant collaboration opportunities. In addition, the region includes strong cross-university collaboration opportunities. More than a decade ago Pitt established the Pittsburgh Quantum Institute, which is now co-directed by Pitt and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), and has over 100 faculty members from Pitt, CMU, and Duquesne University (https://www.pqi.org/).

The position is also an opportunity to contribute to Pitt’s efforts on quantum technologies education to build the quantum and quantum-adjacent workforce. SCI in partnership with the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences recently launched an undergraduate major degree program, Bachelor of Science in Physics and Quantum Computing.

SCI places a strong emphasis on diversity, social justice, and inclusive excellence, and we are actively seeking faculty colleagues who share a deep commitment to these principles and contribute to the broadening of participation in computing through their research, education, service, engagement, and lived experiences. We promote an equitable and inclusive community through faculty development and mentorship, promotion of work-life balance, a program for dual-career couples, and a commitment to recruit, retain, and develop faculty from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

About the Position

The School of Computing and Information (SCI) seeks a tenure-stream Assistant Professor in the broad area of quantum algorithms. SCI has three departments – Computer Science, Informatics and Networked Systems, and Information Culture and Data Stewardship. SCI is interested in candidates whose expertise in developing or applying quantum algorithms aligns with one or more of these departments and who can collaborate effectively with our faculty in various quantum domains such as quantum information, quantum computing systems, quantum cryptography, large-scale quantum simulation, or quantum sensing. Faculty candidates who are excited to collaborate across schools with our colleagues in the Swanson School of Engineering, the Dietrich school of Arts and Sciences, and other Pitt schools are encouraged to apply.

We expect faculty candidates to bridge the gap between classical and quantum computing and information in a variety of ways, such as:

• Coordinating between classical and quantum algorithms and approaches.

• Developing or using innovative quantum algorithms for applications or design.

• Efficient algorithms for emulation of quantum computing and networking.

• Developing and applying machine learning algorithms to optimize quantum computing.

• Quantum sensing algorithms and theories in domains, such as space and medicine.

• Practical quantum error correction algorithm designs.

• Fault tolerant implementations of quantum algorithms in different quantum computational models.

• Developing quantum cryptographic systems including quantum network and post-quantum cryptography.

Minimum required qualifications

• A PhD or equivalent terminal degree in computer science, computer engineering, information science, information systems, or closely related area by August 15, 2025.

• At least three years of relevant experience in advancing research outcomes in quantum algorithms demonstrated by journal and conference publications.

• Evidence of interest and ability to teach at the undergraduate and graduate levels in both classical algorithms, computational theory, and quantum algorithms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Candidates with a track record of initiating a successful interdisciplinary research program in areas such as quantum compilation, distributed quantum computing, quantum error correction and fault tolerance, quantum machine learning, or quantum cryptography.

• Candidates with a strong curiosity and willingness to explore futuristic advancements in quantum science and technology and take their research in emerging directions.

Application Process

Individuals interested in the opening may apply at https://sci.pitt.edu/recruiting. A completed application includes a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research statement, teaching statement, an optional statement of commitment to creating a representative and inclusive community, and the names and contact information of at least three recommenders.

Application reviews will begin after January 5, 2025, with a deadline of March 1, 2025; applications will be accepted until positions are filled. We anticipate that individuals will be invited to interview on campus starting in February 2025.

The anticipated start date is August 15, 2025.

Questions about the search and/or application status may be emailed to sci-recruit@pitt.edu.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

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