Two PhD Students on the subject of Approximation Algorithms, Quantum Information and Semidefinite Optimization Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI)

Two PhD Students on the subject of Approximation Algorithms, Quantum Information and Semidefinite Optimization
Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI) has two vacancies in the Network & Optimization research group for talented PhD Students in the research project "Approximation Algorithms, Quantum Information and Semidefinite Optimization”
The research project “Approximation algorithms, quantum information and semidefinite optimization” aims to explore the limits of efficient computation within classical and quantum computing, using semidefinite optimization as a main unifying tool. The positions involve research into the mathematical and computer science aspects of approximation algorithms for discrete optimization, quantum entanglement in communication, and complexity of fundamental problems in classical and quantum computing. More information about the project can be found at this website.
The research will be supervised by Prof. Monique Laurent from the CWI Networks & Optimization research group, in collaboration with Prof. Ronald de Wolf from the CWI Algorithms & Complexity research group, and Dr. Nikhil Bansal from the department of mathematics and computer science of the Technical University Eindhoven. The positions are funded through an NWO-TOP grant.
Requirements:
Candidates are required to have a Master’s degree in mathematics and/or computer science. Ideal candidates have a strong mathematical background and knowledge in several of the following topics: algorithms, complexity, algebra, combinatorial optimization, semidefinite optimization, quantum information, communication and information theory. Candidate should also have a taste in interdisciplinary research at the frontier between mathematics and computer science.
Further preferable qualifications for candidates include proven research talent and good academic writing and presentation skills. Candidates are expected to have an excellent command of English.
Terms and conditions:
The terms of employment are in accordance with the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Research Centres ("CAO-onderzoeksinstellingen"). The gross monthly salary on a full time basis, is ?2,057 during the first year and increases to ?2,636 over the four year period. Employees are also entitled to a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.33%. CWI offers attractive working conditions, including flexible scheduling and help with housing for expat employees.
The appointment for each PhD student is full time, fixed term for four years and is expected to start around September 2014.
Application & Information:
Applications can be sent to apply-AT-cwi.nl. We will take applications until getting our positions filled.
All applications should include a detailed resume, a motivation letter describing research interests and reasons for applying to this project, undergraduate level certificates including university grades and the detailed list of university courses (with grades), and a short description of the Master thesis. The applicant may also provide names of up to two scientists who are acquainted with their previous academic performance and can write reference letters.
For residents outside the EER-area, a Toefl English language test might be required.
For more information about the vacancy, please contact Prof.dr. Monique Laurent, email monique-AT-cwi.nl.
About Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica
Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI) is the Dutch national research institute for mathematics and computer science and linked to the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO). The mission of CWI is to conduct pioneering research in mathematics and computer science, generating new knowledge in these fields and conveying it to trade, industry, and society at large.
CWI is located at Science Park Amsterdam. It is an internationally oriented institute, with 150 scientists from approximately 25 countries. The facilities are first-rate and include excellent IT support, career planning, training, and courses.
For more information about CWI, please visit www.cwi.nl or watch our video “A Fundamental Difference” about working at CWI.