The University of Plymouth is seeking to recruit a highly motivated Research Assistant with expertise in quantum computing and software development, and familiarity with the field of computer music, to work the “Quantum Computing and Music” project, funded by EPSRC Quantum Computing & Simulation Hub, part of the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme.
The objective of the project is to develop QuTune, an open source programming toolbox designed for sound and music with quantum computing, accompanied with tutorials and demonstrations. QuTune is aimed at encouraging the development of a quantum-ready music tech community of early adopters of quantum computing technology.
The Quantum Computing and Music project is an initiative of the University of Plymouth’s Interdisciplinary Centre for Computer Music Research (ICCMR) in collaboration with University of Oxford’s Department of Computer Science. Industrial collaborators include Spotify, inMusic (a family of leading music technology brands, such as Akai, Alesis, M-Audio) and Rigetti Computing.
You will work in the well-established Interdisciplinary Centre for Computer Music Research (ICCMR) under the guidance of Prof Eduardo Miranda, in collaboration with Prof Bob Coecke’ team at the Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford.
This is a pioneering project worldwide, aimed at expanding the range of applications of Quantum Compuing technology towards the music industry.
Quantum Computing is advancing rapidly. However, musicians are not engaging with this technology. Expertise is largely confined to specialist research laboratories. Existing tools are not adequate. The work entails the development of an open source programming toolbox, designed for music with quantum computing, and accompanying documentation and tutorials. It will require the design of quantum algorithms, and implementation of software combining quantum computing programming with sound/music programming.
Should you be interested in gaining University lecturing experience, opportunities to teach quantum programming and/or music technology will be available.
You will be expected to have a physics, mathematics and/or computing background, familiarity with music technology, including generative systems, and proven expertise in software development and quantum computing.
Please demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.
For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact both Prof Eduardo Miranda by email eduardo.miranda@plymouth.ac.uk
This is a full-time position working 37 hours per week on a fixed-term basis for 12 months in the first instance due to funding. We would consider part-time options. The starting date is 1 April 2021, negotiable under exceptional circumstances.
Interviews are likely to take place in late January and you will be notified if you have been shortlisted or not.
We offer a competitive salary package and a generous pension and holiday scheme. We also offer a range of other benefits, including ongoing development opportunities.
Please note, due to the COVID-19 pandemic the University is currently implementing a number of safety measures as per Government advice therefore the successful applicant may be required to work from home in the first instance.
The University of Plymouth is committed to equality of opportunity, promoting a diverse and inclusive culture, demonstrated through our commitment to the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and as a Stonewall diversity champion. All applications will be judged solely on merit, however, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently under-represented in the workforce, for example black and minority ethnic groups.
University of Plymouth holds a TEF (Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework) Silver by the Office for Students.
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