Scientist with a Focus on Quantum Computing

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft currently operates 76 institutes and research institutions across Germany and is the world’s leading organization for applied research. Around 30,000 employees generate an annual research volume of 3 billion euros.

At the Fraunhofer IWM, 330 employees conduct research on materials and components with the aim of better understanding, developing, processing, and using them. We are therefore one of the leading institutes for predicting material behavior using numerical simulations and scientific experiments. In our projects, we bridge the gap between material properties and the durability, safety, and functionality of technical systems. We identify ways and solutions to increase energy efficiency and sustainability. Materials are key to achieving climate neutrality, conserving our planet’s limited resources, and driving the sustainable transformation of our economy.

Our group "Material Modelling" uses modern numerical methods to theoretically address a wide range of technologically relevant scientific questions. As part of the Baden-Württemberg Quantum Computing Competence Center, we work with partners to explore how current and future quantum computers can be used for the modeling and simulation of materials.

What you will do

As a research associate, you will work on research and development tasks in the field of quantum computing algorithms for materials modeling. In addition to algorithm development, you will also take responsibility for acquiring new projects, conducting the research, and documenting and presenting the results in a structured manner.

A variety of tasks await you:

In this position, you will be responsible for implementing and further developing quantum algorithms to solve material science problems, particularly in solving partial differential equations or modeling correlated electron systems. You will execute these algorithms on current quantum computing hardware and analyze and evaluate the results. To minimize and compensate for the influence of hardware errors, you will identify optimization potentials and implement the latest error mitigation strategies.

Your area of responsibility also includes applying for, acquiring, and carrying out research projects in your field of expertise. You will prepare scientific reports, write publications, and be responsible for organizing and conducting project meetings.

What you bring to the table

Your academic background:

You hold a very good degree or PhD in physics, ideally with a focus on theoretical physics. You are familiar with topics from solid-state physics and understand the conceptual workings of modern quantum computers. You also have a strong interest in numerical simulation techniques and enjoy contributing to their development.

Additional qualifications that complement your profile:

Ideally, you have already gained scientific programming experience in Python, particularly with the Qiskit framework. You use your excellent English skills confidently and appropriately in your day-to-day work. Your independent and creative working style, as well as your strong team spirit, round out your profile.

What you can expect

Your development opportunities:

You will have access to a wide range of training opportunities to support your professional and personal development.

Always something new:

Working at Fraunhofer IWM means researching innovative topics at a well-established research institute. Thanks to our flat hierarchies and open working culture, you will always find the support you need.

What we offer you:

We support your work-life balance with flexible working hours and remote work options. In family emergencies, we offer emergency childcare, and if needed, you can bring your children to our parent-child office to flexibly handle unforeseen situations or childcare shortages.

Additionally, you can benefit from a wide range of employee discounts on events, furniture, clothing, and more.

The culture that awaits you:

Our open institute culture is aimed at making everyone feel welcome and comfortable.

Join us and see for yourself!

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD).

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about the position or the application process, our recruiter Lara Lang will be happy to help.

You can reach us by email at or by phone at +49 (.

Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM