PhD in Quantum AI and Digital Transformation at University College Dublin
PhD opportunity in Quantum AI and Digital Transformation at University College Dublin (UCD)
, in collaboration with the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC).
The project focuses on
Quantum AI
, including quantum machine learning and/or quantum optimization, with applications to digital transformation, policy-making, and societal/economic impact assessment. Example use cases include game-theoretical micro-economic analyses and broader studies of how quantum-enabled methods may support evidence-based decision-making in the European Union.
The successful candidate will be based across
UCD School of Computer Science / C-QuEST
in Dublin and the
JRC Digital Economy and Society Unit
in Ispra, Italy. The PhD is a four-year programme with periods spent at both institutions.
Funding:
tuition fees are waived; the scholarship includes a tax-free stipend of
€25,000/year
while at UCD, a JRC Grantholder contract with a gross salary of around
€45,000/year
while in Italy, plus a travel budget and a new computer. Teaching/demonstration duties may provide additional income.
Eligibility:
applicants should have a 2.1 or equivalent degree in Computer Science, Physics, or a cognate discipline; experience in ML, AI, and/or quantum technologies; strong programming skills in Python, C, or C++; and ideally familiarity with Qiskit, PennyLane, or similar tools. Game-theoretic modelling and micro-economics are advantageous. Excellent English is required. Non-native speakers generally need IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component, though the IELTS requirement is waived for graduates from a degree in Ireland or in English.
Additional JRC conditions:
candidates must be EU citizens or have been ordinarily resident in an EU Member State for at least five years, and must be enrolled in a PhD programme at UCD.
Deadline:
14 June 2026 at 23:00 Dublin time.
Start date:
September 2026.
How to apply:
submit the online form and upload a CV, a brief proposal (max 1,000 words), transcripts, a writing sample, proof of English proficiency if needed, and contacts for two referees.
