Research Associate on Quantum Computing

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our team in Oxford. This role is in an ambitious Royal Society-funded research programme on Quantum Computing through the Lens of Average-Case Complexity, led by Dr Sathyawageeswar Subramanian in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Oxford.

The project seeks to deepen the understanding of the relationship between randomness and computational hardness in the quantum realm, and to investigate the performance of quantum algorithms beyond their worst case complexity. Directions of interest include average-case and beyond worst-case analysis, and developing new theoretical frameworks connecting quantum algorithms, learning theory, metacomplexity, and post-quantum cryptography.

The postholder will play a key role in advancing the foundational and methodological aspects of the project. While the programme has a strong theoretical focus, candidates from a range of backgrounds (including mathematics, physics, or closely related areas) whose research engages with the algorithmic, computational, or complexity theoretic aspects of quantum systems are encouraged to apply. They will work closely with the Royal Society University Research Fellow (URF) Dr. Sathyawageeswar Subramanian, and will have opportunities to collaborate with other leading experts in the Quantum as well as Algorithms and Complexity Theory themes, and to engage with the broader Oxford quantum research community including the Oxford Quantum Institute. They will also benefit from training and development opportunities offered by the Royal Society for PDRAs employed under the URF.

About Us

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Department of Computer Science at Oxford is renowned for pioneering research and teaching across diverse fields, consistently ranking among the best in the world. Our commitment to innovation drives us to tackle complex technological and societal challenges.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing, reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• Excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave (including public holidays) – pro rata for part time jobs
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme and discounted public transport

This is a hybrid role. Working from home will be permissible up to two days per week.

Diversity

Committed to equality and valuing diversity.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a supporting statement and an up-to-date CV as part of your online application.

Your supporting statement must clearly demonstrate how you meet each of the essential selection criteria listed in the job description. Applications that do not include a supporting statement or CV, or fail to address the criteria in sufficient detail, will not be considered.

While we recognise the value of AI tools in assisting with application preparation, submissions that are clearly AI-generated without personalisation or insight will be rejected. It's crucial that your application reflects your own experiences and understanding of the role.

The closing date for applications is midday on 30th April 2026. Interviews are expected to be held in May.

185496 Job Description and Selection Criteria