Senior Scientist, Quantum Applications

About the role

IonQ, Inc. is the world’s leading quantum platform and merchant supplier, delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. We are headquartered in College Park, Maryland, with operations in various locations globally. Our quantum computing services are available through major cloud providers and meet the needs of networking and sensing customers across multiple sectors.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize novel quantum algorithms, applications, and end-to-end workflows that will make scientific and commercial impact in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning
• Work with customers and partners to define and solve problems of real-world interest using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers
• Discover innovative solutions, rigorously benchmark their performance, and publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and conferences
• Help shape team culture and create a lasting impact by supporting an initiative that delivers new scientific discoveries and innovation

You’d be a good fit with:

• 6+ years of professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated expertise in Python and/or C++, and experience with Qiskit or similar quantum SDKs
• Hands-on expertise developing or optimizing quantum algorithms in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning
• Track record of delivering innovative quantum solutions demonstrated through peer-reviewed manuscripts, invited talks, open-source repositories, licenses, publications, and/or patents
• Strong foundation in key quantum computing concepts and the ability to articulate deeply technical ideas to diverse audiences, ranging from scientists and engineers to business leaders and community stakeholders
• Experience being part of a team that finds, defines, and solves problems of real-world interest, with strong collaboration skills and clear technical communication

You’d be a great fit with:

• Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated experience contributing to customer-facing or partner-facing technical engagements, from problem definition through solution delivery
• Experience with variational quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical workloads spanning CPUs, GPUs, and QPUs
• Experience developing hybrid quantum algorithms for NISQ-era systems as well as early fault-tolerant quantum computers
• Demonstrated experience with quantum algorithm resource estimation, performance benchmarking, and scaling analysis
• Proven success working with customers to define and deliver solutions

Location

Remote, US

Travel

10% domestic and international travel supporting customer engagements and technical conference participation

Job ID

1313

Pay

The approximate base salary range for this position is $145,920- $191,047. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, and equity.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• Matching 401(k)
• Unlimited PTO and paid holidays
• Parental/adoption leave
• Legal insurance
• A home technology stipend

Equal Employment Opportunity

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 dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

Export Control Compliance

Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. 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.

Application Instructions

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