Quantum Applications Research Scientist

About the Role

We're looking for a Quantum Applications Research Scientist to help push what's actually possible on early-generation quantum hardware. You'll lead - or contribute to - a research or technical development project focused on quantum applications and algorithms, collaborating with academic and private-sector partners, with the goal of enabling high-impact use cases on real, near-term quantum devices. This is a hands-on research role where you'll develop new applications, refine our compilation architecture, optimize existing algorithms, and build the tooling that makes all of that possible.

About You

You understand why your work matters - you can spot where classical or quantum methods hit real bottlenecks today, and where the meaningful improvements can come from. If you enjoy thinking beyond your own project, sharing what you learn with the wider team, lending your expertise to support other groups, and - when it makes sense - representing us confidently with partners, clients, and the broader scientific community, this role is for you!

Responsibilities

Research & Technical Development

• Lead or contribute to a quantum applications/algorithms project, potentially in collaboration with academic or private partners
• Develop new applications - from initial state preparation to gate count optimization to translating use cases into algorithms
• Define, improve, or optimize (parts of) our compilation architecture
• Build and improve tooling for applications or compilation work
• Implement code in Qualtran and determine/optimize the logical and cat qubit resources required to run it
• Publish research findings (target: 1 paper/year)
• Co-author patents and produce research documentation that strengthens our IP portfolio, when relevant
• Represent the company in scientific collaborations, at conferences, or in review/commentary of external papers, when relevant

Team & Company Contribution

• Share learnings and insights through the L2/L3 guild
• Contribute to and improve team processes and cross-team interfaces, taking ownership of specific areas
• Provide technical insight and expertise on research projects owned by others
• Support other teams by lending your expertise - including representing the company to (potential) partners and clients

Requirements

• 3+ years of hands-on research experience
• PhD in quantum algorithms, quantum information theory, mathematics, or a related field (e.g., quantum chemistry)
• Strong knowledge of quantum information and algorithms (e.g., qubitization, Trotterization, spin models, the Hubbard model, tensor networks)
• Understanding of how algorithms connect to compilation and error correction (e.g., time-optimal computation, Pauli frames, lattice surgery, magic state distillation/cultivation, LDPC codes)
• Deep expertise in at least one subfield (e.g., quantum compilation, ZX calculus, the Hubbard model, dissipative state preparation)
• Skilled at critically reading research papers and identifying promising research directions
• Track record of generating and validating original research ideas
• Excellent written and oral communication - from technical papers to talks for both expert and general audiences
• Proven ownership of projects: hitting deadlines, planning ahead, engaging the right stakeholders
• Keen to give and receive constructive feedback
• Ability to build trust-based relationships with external partners and collaborators
• First-hand experience and passion for mentorship

Recruitment Process

• Screening Call with Grace, Talent Acquisition Specialist (30 min)
• Hiring Manager Interview with Agathe (45 min)
• Technical Interview/Presentation with the team (90 min)
• Leadership Team Interview (30 min)
• Fit Interview (45 min)
• Reference Check