Postdoc in Quantum Bayesian Optimisation for Molecular and Material Design, University of Amsterdam

Job Description

The University of Amsterdam is hiring a postdoc in quantum Bayesian optimisation for molecular and material design. You will use quantum computing to improve machine-learning models for atomistic simulation. The post pays €3,706 to €5,760 a month for 18 months.

At a glance

• Position: Postdoc, 18 months, 38 hours a week (vacancy 15461)
• Where: Computational Soft Matter Lab, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Pay: €3,706 to €5,760 gross a month (scale 10), plus 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus
• Start: As soon as possible
• Contacts: Dr Alberto Pérez de Alba Ortíz and Dr Clélia de Mulatier
• Apply: 18 October 2026 (applications are reviewed on a rolling basis)

What the quantum Bayesian optimisation postdoc covers

• Use quantum computing to improve ML models that speed up atomistic simulation
• Model the properties of molecules and materials
• Focus on quantum optimisation and on keeping quantum-circuit complexity manageable
• Build pipelines that combine quantum and classical computing for molecular and material design
• Work with the MMD technology hub’s quantum initiative, SURF’s quantum computing division and the Dutch Institute for Emergent Phenomena
• Optionally supervise BSc and MSc theses and help with teaching

Why this role matters

Finding new molecules and materials by simulation is slow and costly. Quantum computers may speed up parts of the search, but only if the algorithms fit real hardware. This post sits at that meeting point. You also get freedom to propose your own directions, which builds an independent profile.

What UvA is looking for

• A PhD in quantum computing, computational chemistry or physics, machine learning, statistical inference or a related field
• Publications in refereed journals
• An interdisciplinary attitude
• Professional English

Nice to have

• Experience in two or more of: quantum computing, machine learning, statistical inference and atomistic modelling

Pay and location

The salary is €3,706 to €5,760 gross a month on scale 10, for 38 hours a week. On top come 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus. The 30% tax ruling may apply to applicants from abroad. The contract runs 18 months, with a two-month probation period. The work is in Amsterdam.

How to apply

Apply through the official UvA page. The closing date is 18 October 2026 (applications are reviewed on a rolling basis). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early. Upload your CV with months, and one PDF with a motivation letter (one page), a project proposal (two pages) linking quantum computing, statistical inference and atomistic modelling, a publication list, and the names and emails of two referees. A knowledge-security check may be part of selection.

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