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Home ― Research ― Quantum Computing Graduate Research Assistantship Positions

Quantum Computing Graduate Research Assistantship Positions

On March 13, 2024 Governor Kristi Noem signed Senate Bill 45 which allocated funding for the new Center for Quantum Information Science and Technology at Dakota State University.  Authored by DSU President Jose-Marie Griffiths this initiative in quantum computing aims to accelerate South Dakota’s priority research in core areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, agriculture, and healthcare.  Among the many opportunities this state-supported research provides is a doctoral assistantship.  We invite all our doctoral students to review the position description and conditions below for this very special opportunity.

Assistantship Description

This graduate research assistantship (GRA) position will assist in developing algorithms and security models that include quantum encryption while addressing the challenges of quantum computing and quantum AI systems. As part of the role, the GRA will engage in designing secure quantum AI and encryption protocols, modeling quantum and quantum AI-specific threats, and testing the resilience of algorithms against quantum attacks. Key responsibilities include constructing attack simulations for both quantum computing and quantum AI environments, developing tailored countermeasures for emerging vulnerabilities, and crafting security frameworks to ensure robust data protection.  Students may also be involved in developing quantum circuits and exploring other various quantum computing algorithms such as variational quantum eigen solver.  This initiative aims to establish advanced security standards for the future of quantum and quantum AI data processing and storage. The projects include the study of quantum particle interactions by simulation on quantum computer and exploration of novel phenomena of quantum systems.  The GRA will work 20 hours work requirement each week, flexible schedule.

Requirements

  • Must be a current DSU doctoral student or a Fall, 2025 admittee to doctoral study.
  • Must be a full time (9 credit hours), on-campus doctoral student residing in Madison, SD.
  • Master of Science in computer science field and familiarity with scope of work defined above.
  • Excellent mathematics aptitude and keen understanding of basics physics/science concepts.
  • High proficiency in Python programming.

Compensation

The assistantship will provide full tuition benefits and a $22,000 stipend through the academic year.  The assistantship will be renewed annually for a total of three years while the student completes their doctoral requirements in computer science.  The appointed GRA will work with skilled mentors including Dr. Peng Guo and Dr. Varghese Vaidyan.

Application

If you meet the requirements above and have an interest in this position, please send a cover letter discussing your interest and your experience, along with a full resume/vita to mark.hawkes@dsu.edu by March 1, 2025.  No GRE score is required for this position.  The assistantship will start with the beginning of the Fall term, 2025 (August 25).