IonQ

IonQ is developing the world's most powerful full-stack quantum computer based on trapped-ion technology. We are pushing past the limits of classical physics and current supercomputing technology to unlock a new era of computing. Quantum computing has the potential to impact every area of human society for the better. IonQ’s computers will soon redefine industries like medicine, materials science, finance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptography, and more. IonQ is at the forefront of this technological revolution.

We are looking for a Senior Research Scientist. As a Senior Research Scientist, you’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world’s best quantum computers to solve the world’s most complex problems.

To support these efforts, IonQ is expanding its theoretical research team and is hiring a Research Scientist to lead a dedicated research line on modular quantum computing. The primary responsibility of this position will be to conduct research on modular quantum computing across multiple qubit modalities including neutral atoms, ions and superconducting qubits.

Responsibilities:

• Design and evaluate architectures for fault tolerant, modular quantum computing with memory-assisted quantum networking layers based on diamond color centers, including detailed error modeling and numerical simulation to link logical performance metrics to key physical hardware parameters, optimized protocols for logical networking (e.g. distillation, lattice surgery, transversal operations), and analysis of performance requirements for modular computation/algorithm implementation
• Provide input for specific near-term product designs as well as clarifying current and future needs in terms of scale, performance, and operation of the networking layer for enabling full scale, fault-tolerant quantum computing
• Identify, analyze, and refine new use-cases and modalities for IonQ's hardware alongside others on IonQ and/or customers' theory and application development teams
• Work closely together with hardware teams at IonQ to accurately address hardware constraints in the design of optimal architectures and protocols

You’d be a good fit with:

• PhD. in physics or closely related field
• 6+ years of professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Multiple publications in one or more (preferred) of the following areas of quantum science: quantum error correction, distributed quantum computing, quantum hardware modelling, quantum networking

You’d be a great fit with:

• Experience as independent researcher at the level of a postdoctoral researcher in quantum science
• Scientific experience with diamond color centers
• Familiarity with multiple types of quantum computing architectures and quantum error correcting codes
• Proven track record of collaborating with experimental groups

Location: This role can work onsite or hybrid from our office in Boston, MA.

Travel: Minimal to none.

Job ID: 1065

The approximate base salary range for this position is $123,191 - $161,289. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.

Compensation will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Beyond base salary, total compensation includes a variable bonus and equity component and a range of benefit options found on our career site at ionq.co/jobs. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment. Our US benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, a home internet stipend, and pet insurance!

IonQ's HQ is located in College Park, Maryland, a quick 15-minute metro from Washington DC. We are actively building out our recently opened manufacturing and production facility in Bothell, WA (near Seattle). Depending on the position, you may be required to be near one of our offices in College Park, Seattle, or Toronto. However, IonQ will expand into additional domestic and international geographies, so don’t let this stop you from applying!

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

The position you are applying for may require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying U.S.-person status for export controls and government contracts work and/or obtaining any necessary license/confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law.

If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!