Senior Research Scientist, Applications & Algorithms

In particular, you will:

• Identify, formulate, and prioritize specific problem instances and applications within selected domains (e.g., chemistry, optimization) that offer credible opportunities for near-term quantum advantage, supported by feasibility and scaling analyses.
• Design, implement, and execute quantum algorithms on real hardware, leveraging advanced control and performance-management techniques.
• Perform quantitative benchmarking and ablation studies to isolate and validate the true sources of quantum performance gains relative to optimized classical approaches.
• Draw on methods from diverse fields—including control theory, optimization, machine learning, computer science, and data analysis—to enhance algorithmic performance.
• Develop and maintain high-quality research code for quantum algorithm optimization and near-term application studies.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to translate research concepts into production-ready software integrated within Q-CTRL’s product ecosystem.
• Communicate your work clearly and accessibly, incorporating feedback and fostering strong cross-team collaboration.
• Publish and present your research in peer-reviewed journals and at leading conferences; engage with external academic and industrial collaborators.
• Other duties within the Employee's skills and experience, or with reasonable training.

Ideally you'll have:

• An advanced degree in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related discipline. A PhD is preferred, but we will also consider exceptional individuals with previous industry experience.
• Expertise in quantum computing, quantum algorithms, or quantum control. For this role, we would like to see depth in one or more of: quantum optimization, simulation, chemistry, cryptography, or quantum machine learning.
• A track record of impactful research, demonstrated through publications or presentations in well-regarded journals and conferences.
• Experience in developing software for scientific experiments using Python.

Skills and experience we also value (one or more is desirable, but not required):

• Familiarity with executing circuits in Qiskit.
• Familiarity with error suppression techniques used in quantum computing, such as dynamical decoupling, readout mitigation, zero-noise extrapolation, Pauli twirling, or pulse-level optimization.
• A strong background in relevant methods from fields such as control theory, optimization, machine learning, or data analysis.
• Experience with GPUs, TPUs, and other forms of hardware-accelerated computing.
• Exceptional scientific communication skills, evidenced by a track record of teaching, scientific outreach, writing, producing elegant figures and visualizations, and speaking in front of both general and expert audiences.