Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantum Computing for Fluid Dynamics

About the role

ETH Zurich is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate quantum algorithms for turbulent fluid dynamics, within the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) and its possible implementation on future quantum hardware. The project is carried out in collaboration with IBM and involves researchers from academia and industry. It is based in the computational kinetics group at D-MAVT, and the initial appointment is one year, extendable to a second year depending on results.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the research on quantum approaches to fluid dynamics and help define the project direction.
• Investigate Lattice Boltzmann algorithms for quantum computers, including linearisation approaches such as Kolmogorov, Koopman and Carleman methods.
• Study quantum algorithmic approaches such as sparse Hamiltonian methods, block encoding and quantum linear systems algorithms.
• Develop novel linearisation, integration and algorithmic approaches where existing methods are not well suited to LBM.
• Explore hybrid classical-quantum approaches, such as combining LBM for wall treatment with Navier-Stokes formulations for internal flows.
• Compare LBM with alternatives like Navier-Stokes in terms of quantum resources, stability, scalability and applicability.
• Quantify the potential for quantum advantage at high Reynolds numbers and develop a proof-of-concept demonstration with complex geometry and boundary conditions.
• Present results to the project teams regularly, publish in journals and present at international conferences.

Required profile

• PhD in computational fluid dynamics, applied mathematics, physics, computer science, quantum computing or a closely related field.
• Strong expertise in computational fluid dynamics, quantum physics, quantum algorithms or quantum computing.
• Experience developing and analysing numerical or computational methods for scientific applications.
• Able to work independently on challenging research questions and to collaborate across disciplines.
• Clear communication of scientific results in written and spoken English.

Required skills

• Highly relevant: high-performance computing, scientific programming and/or quantum-computing frameworks.

What we offer

• An ambitious research project at the intersection of quantum computing, CFD and high-performance computing.
• Direct collaboration with IBM researchers and access to ETH Zurich's research infrastructure.
• Opportunities to publish and present internationally, and professional development support.
• Benefits including mobility offers, access to the ASVZ sports programme, childcare options and pension benefits.

Applications must be submitted online through the ETH Zurich application portal by November 30, 2026, with a CV including publications, a short statement on research experience and motivation, and contact details for two academic referees. Selection takes place in one interview round.