Master Thesis: Scalable Methods for Quantum Error Characterization and Mitigation

At the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF we know our technologies like the back of our hand. Because we are one of the few scientific institutions worldwide to conduct research along the entire semiconductor value chain and on tailor-made synthetic diamonds. Whether high-frequency circuits for communications technology, voltage converter modules for electromobility, laser systems for measurement processes, or innovative hardware and software for quantum computers and quantum sensors: we develop tomorrow's technology in-house for a sustainable and secure society. When will you join us?

The Master Thesis includes:

Quantum computing offers fundamentally new ways of information processing. Current quantum computers are reaching a size where they could be used to study real-world problems. However, they are still plagued by undesired interactions between different quantum bits (crosstalk) and between quantum bits and the environment (decoherence). These effects limit the size of quantum algorithms that can be successfully executed.

To improve the computational capabilities of current quantum computers, crosstalk errors and decoherence of a quantum computer need to be characterized and mitigation strategies need to be developed. With growing number of qubits, these tasks become very costly. In this thesis, more flexible and efficient methods will be developed to construct a so-called sparse Pauli-Lindblad error model of a superconducting quantum processor. This model will be used as the input for a so-called probabilistic-error-cancellation protocol that mitigates these errors such that longer quantum algorithms can be executed.

Your work will focus on

• Transforming arbitrary quantum circuits through randomized compiling into a form where every quantum gate has a sparse Pauli-Lindblad error channel
• Developing a more flexible method to measure and construct sparse Pauli-Lindblad channels than what is currently implemented in the qiskit quantum-computing API
• Implementing an error mitigation protocol based on probabilistic error cancellation
• Implementing and testing these methods on actual IBM quantum computers.

What you bring along:

• Enrolled Master student in physics, computer science or a comparable programme
• Knowledge of quantum mechanics and quantum information theory
• Good language skills in German and English
• Enjoyment of theoretical work
• Ability to work in a team, openness and motivation for independent and goal-oriented work

What we offer:

• Personal support on an equal footing and assistance from experienced scientists and professionals throughout your thesis
• A broad education in quantum science and technology
• Attractive topics with the prospect of publication
• Space for independent work and creative participation
• Interactions with fellow Master and PhD students
• Flexible working hours that fit your studies
• An open and team-oriented corporate culture that allows you to contribute your own ideas
• Diverse and exciting tasks in the environment of an internationally renowned research institution
• Free parking garage with e-charging stations, as well as a Frelo station (bike rental system) and a bus stop directly at the institute

The position is initially limited to 1 year. The monthly working time is 40 hours.  

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference After sending your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will get back to you as soon as possible and let you know how we will proceed. Do you have questions about the position, the application process, or accessibility? Do you need support? Our recruiter Maria Boerner is here for you: , phone
You can find more accessible information here: Working with disabilities at Fraunhofer IAF - Fraunhofer IAF

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, as well as sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled individuals will be given preference if equally qualified.
Our tasks are diverse and adaptable - for applicants with disabilities, we will jointly find solutions that optimally promote your abilities. The same applies if you do not meet all profile requirements due to a disability. 

You can learn more about the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics here:

Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF
Human Resources
Tullastrasse 72
79108 Freiburg

Kennziffer: 81910