Staff Theoretical Physics Scientist - Quantum Computing

Location: Seattle, Washington

Team: System Architecture & Performance

Type: Full-Time

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 Staff Scientist specializing in many-body quantum simulations. As a Staff Scientist on the System Performance and Architecture team, 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. 

In this role you will work to develop and analyze time-dependent real-space quantum simulations describing the physics of our trapped ion processors. You will provide technical analysis to inform our development process, provide engineering requirements and plan projects to facilitate these goals. You will help mentor peers and contribute to a continuous learning environment.

 

Responsibilities: 

  • Develop physical models under suitable approximations to describe relevant parameters in many-body trapped ion systems under time dependent trapping fields
  • Work collaboratively with other physicists and software engineers to implement simulation methods within a larger simulation framework
  • Collaborate with sub-system teams to develop technical requirements for engineered systems
  • Explore scientific literature and contribute to the dissemination and development of learning resources
  • Plan and lead technical projects involving multiple stakeholders from different teams within the organization

 

You’d be a good fit with:

  • PhD in Quantum Physics, Engineering or a related field and 2+ years professional experience
  • Demonstrated experience in the modeling of complex quantum systems.Specialization in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics, many-body quantum systems, open quantum systems, or similar
  • Python programming

 

You’d be a great fit with: 

  • 5+ years experience in a professional or academic setting
  • Experience in mentoring
  • Experience in a large corporate or volunteer organization
  • Experience with trapped ion systems
  • Experience with quantum computing or quantum information theory
  • Experience with programming in modern C++ or Rust
  • Experience working with Mathematica or other computer algebra system

Our HQ is located in College Park, Maryland and we are a 15 minute metro ride from Washington DC. We have also recently announced our new manufacturing and production facility in the Seattle, Washington area. We are actively building out teams in the Washington D.C., Seattle, Boston and Toronto metro areas and will want to locate you in one of these geographies. However, IonQ will be expanding into additional geographies both domestically and internationally so don’t let this stop you from applying.
 
At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement for all, while at the same time 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  in which any individual 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, color, national origin, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, and military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
 
If you are interested in being a part of this team and mission, we encourage you to apply.