PhD Position in Quantum Software Engineering

Solving fundamental problems in ICT that benefit society.

Simula’s vision is to be an excellent research lab, educating future technology leaders and providing independent advice to the government. We want to be an innovator and innovation partner and apply our expertise to problems that matter. We do this by concentrating on five select research areas in ICT. 

Learn more about: working at Simula and careers at Simula

Project/Job description

In the Department of ComplexSE, we are currently looking for a PhD candidate at the Norwegian Quantum Software Center, a national research initiative dedicated to advancing quantum software research. The center concentrates on foundational research in software abstractions, automated quantum software development, circuit optimization, noise reduction, execution on near-term quantum hardware, and quantum artificial intelligence. NorQSoft partners with leading academic and industry nationally and internationally. 

This PhD project will focus on one of the following two topics:

Developing AI-based methods and tools for automated quantum software development. The research will investigate how techniques such as large language models and search-based methods can assist quantum programmers by helping with circuit generation, error detection, optimization, and providing meaningful explanations of quantum code.

Research automated quantum testing and debugging methods for quantum software, tackling challenges like the test oracle problem, creating effective test cases, and fault localization in quantum circuits. AI-powered techniques will be examined for detecting possible bugs, estimating quantum states during execution, and automatically generating and ranking candidate patches.                                                               

Candidate Profile

We are looking for interested candidates who have:

- Strong programming skills.

- Solid background in software engineering, such as software development, testing, or debugging.

- Strong background in AI-based software engineering (e.g., LLMs).

- Some experience with quantum computing platforms, such as IBM’s Qiskit

- Motivation to work on emerging technologies, particularly quantum computing.                                                                                            

Simula Offers

• Excellent opportunities for performing high-quality research, as part of a highly competent and motivated team of international researchers and engineers;
• An informal and inclusive international working environment;
• Generous support for travel and opportunities to build international networks, through established collaboration with industry, exchange programs and research visits with other universities, and funding to attend conferences.
• Modern office facilities located in downtown Oslo/in Bergen
• A competitive salary. Starting salary from NOK …
• Numerous benefits: access to company cabin, sponsored social events, generous equipment budgets (e.g., computer, phone and subscription), subsidized canteen meals, comprehensive travel/health insurance policy, etc.
• Relocation assistance: accommodation, visas, complimentary Norwegian language courses, etc
• Administrative research support: e.g., quality assurance process for grant proposals (including RCN and EU programs).
• Wellness and work-life balance. Our employees’ health and well-being is a priority and we encourage them to make use of our flexible work arrangements to help balance their work and home lives efficiently. 

Application Requirements

Interested applicants are requested to submit the following:

• Curriculum vitae:  Summarize your educational background, working experience (in particular, any relevant academic or industrial work), list of scientific publications, etc.
• Cover letter: outline your motivation for applying, relevant experience and qualifications, research interests and how/why you are qualified for the position;
• Other: transcripts from Bachelor and Master degrees (if applying for a PhD position), PhD thesis?
• (Anything else?)

Application deadline

April 15, 2026

Contact

Additional enquiries regarding the position can be addressed to 

Shaukat Ali, shaukat@simula.no

About Simula and Norway

Simula Research Laboratory AS is a publicly owned research lab located in Oslo, Norway. Simula conducts Information and Communication Technology (ICT) research in the fields of scientific computing, software engineering, communication systems, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. 

Simula's main objective is solving fundamental problems in ICT that benefit society. This is achieved through high-quality, excellent and focused research, strong and strategic partnerships with leading universities and research groups, nationally and internationally. Simula provides independent, research-based advice to the Norwegian government on the risks and rewards of emerging technologies. Simula educates graduate students and the next generation of researchers and technology leaders that match societal needs. We promote an informed public conversation by sharing our knowledge and expertise. Simula works closely with industry and the public sector to turn knowledge into innovation and real-world impact. Simula promotes a culture of innovation, enabling commercialization and dissemination of research results by turning ideas into working solutions.

Since 2001, scientific evaluations conducted by the Research Council of Norway have repeatedly placed Simula at the forefront of international research in ICT. In 2025, a recent evaluation ranked Simula the highest of all Norwegian research institutions regarding impact and publication quality (p14. in National EVALMIT rapport).

Simula appreciates diversity. We currently employ approximately 200 individuals from 35 countries and strive to create a family-friendly working environment. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage women to apply.                                                  

Simula has a close collaboration with leading universities in Norway and abroad, both in terms of research and education, and facilitates extended research stays abroad. Our Master's and PhD students conduct their research at Simula, and attend courses and receive their degrees from university partners.                                            

Norway is famous for its epic outdoor scenery, with wonderful fjords, gorgeous waterfalls and majestic mountain ranges. Moreover, Norway is a safe and peaceful country with a thriving economy, offering a high standard of living and all the benefits of a social-democratic welfare state, such as social security and universal public healthcare.

Learn more about Norway: Official travel guide to Norway

Simula Research Laboratory uses background checks in our recruitment process.

According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

Employment for this position will be made according to the act relating to Control of the export of strategic goods, Services and Technology. Candidates who by assessment of the application and any attachments are considered to be in conflict with the export control regulations will not qualify for this position.

According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.