Quantum computing and quantum many-body simulation

Research Group: Centre for Condensed Matter Physics
Number of Students: 1
Length of Study in Years: 3 Years
Full-time Project: yes

Funding

 Funding is provided via Queen Mary 

• • Available to home and outstanding overeseas applicants
  • Applicant required to start in September 2026.
  • The studentship arrangement will cover tuition fees for the duration of the studentship.

Project Description

Quantum technologies are advancing rapidly, raising a central question for the field: Can quantum computers solve physically relevant problems better than classical computers? Understanding this requires overcoming deep theoretical challenges at the intersection of quantum information, many-body physics, and computational complexity.

This PhD project aims to explore the capabilities and limitations of quantum computation and develop quantum algorithms for tackling quantum many-body problems. You will investigate when and how quantum computing can provide genuine advantages for simulating or analysing complex physical systems.

You will work on a range of closely connected topics, which, for example, may include:

• Complexity of quantum dynamics, and its quantum simulation.

Study the fundamental computational complexity involved in simulating the time evolution of many-body quantum systems. This includes exploring links with quantum thermalisation, open quantum system dynamics, and the emergence of classical behaviour. We will develop new quantum algorithms for simulating quantum processes more efficiently.

• Quantum algorithms for quantum many-body problems

We will investigate the potential for quantum computers in quantum problems. This include finding eigenstates of many-body Hamiltonians, simulating quantum dynamics, simulating quantum thermalisation, and characterising phases of matter. Insights may have implications for quantum error correction, non-Markovian behaviour, quantum memory effects, and noise-resilient computation.

We will also explore quantum sensing and spectroscopy from a quantum-computational perspective. This will link concepts from quantum information with physical notions such as response functions and fingerprints of many-body systems. We may think about new notions of quantum computing that is beyond current qubit-based quantum computers.

You will join an active research group working at the interface of quantum information and many-body physics. Training will be provided in quantum complexity, quantum algorithms, and advanced theoretical tools.

Before submitting an application, we would be happy to discuss the project or answer any informal queries. Please get in touch at jinzhao.sun@qmul.ac.uk.

Applications should be submitted by 28th of January 2026 for full consideration in this round. You are encouraged to apply as early as possible. You may also contact the supervisor to explore other PhD studentship opportunities beyond this deadline.

Application Method:

To apply for this studentship and for entry onto the Physics programme (Full Time), please follow the instructions detailed on the following webpage:

https://www.qmul.ac.uk/spcs/phdresearch/application-process/#apply

Deadline for application - 28th of January 2026

Supervisor Contact Details:

For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Dr Jinzhao Sun

Email: jinzhao.sun@qmul.ac.uk

 

 

Requirements

PhD Research Studentship Details

• Available to Home and overseas applicants.
• Applicant required to start in September 2026 (or discuss with the supervisor)
• The studentship arrangement will cover home tuition fees and provide an annual stipend for up to three years at UKRI level.
• The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.

It is desirable if candidates have experience in any of the following areas:

1. Theoretical quantum computing and information
2. Quantum many-body physics
3. Theoretical computer science
4. Computational physics

Supervisor Contact Details:  Dr Jinzhao Sun

For informal enquiries about this position, please contact

E-mail: jinzhao.sun@qmul.ac.uk

SPCS Academics: Dr Jinzhao Sun