Internship — AI for Quantum Algorithms, Linear Algebra & Hamiltonian Simulation

We invite highly motivated students and early-career researchers to join IBM Research Europe in Zurich for a research internship at the intersection of artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The internship focuses on AI methods for the configuration, characterization, and application of quantum algorithms in linear algebra and Hamiltonian simulation, with an emphasis on enabling the effective use of quantum hardware across both current-generation and future fault-tolerant quantum systems. Working closely with researchers from the Quantum and AI teams, you will contribute to the development of algorithms, software, and evaluation methodologies for scientifically and industrially relevant computational problems.

What you will do

• Develop AI-assisted techniques for quantum algorithms in linear algebra, Hamiltonian simulation, and related scientific computing applications.
• Design, implement, and evaluate hybrid quantum-classical workflows on IBM Quantum hardware and high-performance simulators.
• Explore advanced Hamiltonian simulation techniques, including sample-based methods such as SqDRIFT, and investigate how AI methods can improve their practical performance and applicability.
• Study AI-enhanced quantum algorithms for challenging linear algebra and simulation problems relevant to scientific discovery and industrial applications.
• Explore AI-driven improvements for both current-generation and fault-tolerant quantum algorithms, including resource estimation and performance analysis.
• Develop high-quality, reproducible research software and contribute to technical reports, publications, and open-source projects when appropriate.

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, a Master's or PhD program in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with quantum computing frameworks such as Qiskit or equivalent quantum software platforms.
• Solid understanding of quantum algorithms and quantum circuit design.
• Strong background in linear algebra, numerical methods, scientific computing, or algorithm development.
• Familiarity with machine learning concepts and data-driven methods.
• Strong Python programming skills and sound software engineering practices.
• Experience working in Linux environments and using git-based development workflows.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Hamiltonian simulation, quantum linear algebra, quantum chemistry, condensed matter physics, or related application domains.
• Familiarity with advanced algorithms for quantum simulations (e.g., randomized quantum simulation methods, qubitization-based approaches).
• Experience applying AI methods to scientific computing, physics, or algorithms.
• Experience with high-performance computing, experiment orchestration, containers, and reproducible research workflows.
• Scientific writing experience and a track record of well-documented research software.

Location, Timing, and Format

• Location: IBM Research Europe – Zurich, Switzerland
• Duration: 3 months
• Supervision: Researchers from the AI and Quantum teams, with access to IBM Quantum systems and research infrastructure.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV including contact information for two or three references. We encourage candidates to also share a short video introducing themselves and highlighting their motivation and relevant experience. The video is optional.

Interview Process

After the initial screening based on the uploaded documentation, identified candidates will be contacted for a first technical discussion on their experience, background, and motivations, followed by coding interview and an AI/ML interview. Further selection steps might be added based on candidates skills and project needs.